Australia is extending its energy efficiency standards beyond new builds to cover the existing housing stock, a policy shift that could reshape demand for retrofit materials and services.
While new constructions are already required to meet a minimum seven-star rating, experts note that the typical existing home scores no higher than three stars on the same scale.
The expansion aims to address the significant gap in thermal performance across the country's older properties, which account for approximately 70% of the housing market.
The expansion aims to address the significant gap in thermal performance across the country's older properties, which account for approximately 70% of the housing market.
The initiative introduces a new rating framework designed to guide homeowners through targeted upgrades, such as improved insulation and ventilation, to reduce energy consumption and improve comfort.
This move aligns with broader global trends where energy efficiency is becoming a key driver of residential investment, although data from the UK suggests that top-tier ratings currently command only a marginal price premium in the property market.
The policy shift may stimulate activity in the building materials and HVAC sectors as homeowners seek to comply with or exceed the new benchmarks.