CHANGES TO BASIX

What to know about the NSW government regulations changes

The NSW Government has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. This will improve the quality of life for the people of NSW, protect the environment, and maintain a strong economy.

These Government requirements have led to changes to the standard BASIX requirements in a new build. Building a new home is one of the biggest decisions you’ll ever make. Before you start on this journey, we want to make sure you are informed, prepared, and supported.

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What is BASIX?

BASIX (Building Sustainability Index) is a development standard that sets sustainability targets across all new homes in NSW for water and energy, as well as minimum performance levels for thermal comfort. Our specialised team at Masterton can help formulate the best way to achieve the new 7-star minimum (equivalence) requirements in line with the National Construction Code of Australia (NCC)

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When are the changes to BASIX in effect?

As of August 2023 the NSW Government has updated when the Basix 7-Star Energy Efficiency targets for new dwellings come into effect.

Building contracts signed on or before 30th September 2023 can be exempt from the new sustainable building (BASIX) standards (7-Star Rating) until 30th June, 2024. However, should you make any amendments to the design after the BASIX assessment, or for assessments requested after the 30th June 2024, the new BASIX will apply to your build and may incur additional costs to you. Building contracts signed after the 1st October 2023 will need to comply with the new target of 7 stars NatHERS rating.

To avoid additional costs you will need to sign your building contract and pay your contract deposit before the 1st October 2023.

The Department of Planning has prepared a comprehensive fact sheet containing additional details, which can be conveniently accessed here.

What do you need to know about the about
the BASIX changes in NSW?

It is important to highlight, in order to achieve the NSW Government requirements for BASIX there is a cost implication. A provision of 15k* will be implemented for single storey dwellings and 30k* for double storey dwellings as of the 1st of October 2023. The amount will depend on your location, block aspect, home size and design.

According to NSW Government, with these BASIX changes, there is a potential of saving as much as $980 a year on energy bills. These changes will mean, your home will be naturally cooler in summer, warmer in winter, which means you won t be turning the heater or air conditioner on as often. And as a homeowner, you can feel the satisfaction of knowing you are having a positive impact on carbon emissions.
If you have DA/CDC-approved plans, the new standard requirements for BASIX will not affect you. However, if you make any changes to your plan, you may be required to resubmit your plans and may need

What are the changes to the BASIX scheme?

There has been an increase from 5.5-star NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) to 7-star minimum (equivalence) for the thermal comfort target set by NSW government in line with the NCC.
This means for those building a new home, as of the 1st of
October 2023, the key changes are:
  • External Wall Insulation R2.5 minimum
  • Roof Insulation R6.0 minimum
  • Use of light roof colours as much as possible
  • Single storey home designs to have Low E coated glass in bedroom windows and double-glazed living room windows
  • Double storey homes to have double-glazing for all windows except wet areas.

Here are some key points to help achieve a 7 star NatHERS rating

Window

The main benefit of double glazed and Low-E glass windows is improved thermal insulation through reduction in heat transfer. The cooling load of windows can also be reduced by increasing shading overhangs or using external louvres or awnings.

The amount of glass in the living areas can help to determine the amount of heat loss through the windows.

Installation

External wall installation will have to meet an R2.5 minimum, which means less heat will be lost in winter and the house will be kept cooler in summer. Roof installation will also increase to an R6 minimum.

Lighter roof colours

Light colours reflect the sun’s rays reducing the amount of heat absorbed by the roof.

Ceiling fans

Ceiling fans can help disperse hot air out of the room in summer cooling the room down faster, while having the added benefit of circulating warm air during colder months.

Orientation

When siting your home, orientation, window location, and size can have a huge impact. A balance needs to be found to make sure the home doesn’t overheat in summer while it retains heat in the winter.

Solar

Solar PV system in your home can help in improving your energy score especially if you are choosing to build an electric home.

Solar is now comes included as standard with our Ultimate Inclusions, find out more about the benefits of solar by clicking here.

Have more questions about BASIX changes? Our team at
Masterton can talk you through any questions you may have.