The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has launched Green Star Communities V2, the latest evolution of its leading sustainability rating tool that ensures new precincts are designed to be climate-ready, socially inclusive, and resilient to future challenges.

As cities grow and climate and environmental pressures intensify, the updated rating tool is set to provide a structured and transparent framework to help developers and planners deliver well-designed, sustainable communities that balance social, environmental, and economic outcomes.

GBCA CEO Davina Rooney says the new tool reflects the growing demand for precincts that deliver long-term resilience and strong sustainability performance.

“Communities shape how we live, work, and connect, and as we navigate increasing environmental challenges, we need planning frameworks that embed sustainability from the outset and ensure they are delivered throughout a project’s lifecycle,” Rooney says.

Green Star Communities V2 introduces the Masterplanned status, allowing projects to demonstrate their sustainability commitments from the earliest stages and providing a step-by-step approach to achieving full certification upon completion.

“The Masterplanned status gives investors, governments, and communities confidence that precincts are being designed with sustainability at their core from day one,” Rooney says.

The updated rating tool strengthens requirements for decarbonisation, water efficiency, and sustainable mobility, supporting fully electric, fossil fuel-free developments powered by renewables. It also incorporates measures to reduce resource consumption and improve access to walking, cycling, and public transport.

“Transport, energy, and water are at the heart of thriving communities, and this tool gives planners the framework to integrate them in a way that enhances sustainability, and long-term resilience,” Rooney says.

Recognising the role of nature in urban resilience, Green Star Communities V2 introduces enhanced measures for biodiversity, green space, and climate-responsive design. These initiatives support urban cooling, ecosystem protection, and improved community wellbeing.

"People want to live in communities where green spaces and nature are part of everyday life. Green Star Communities v2 makes sure sustainability goes beyond individual buildings to create precincts that are cooler, healthier, and more connected to nature," Rooney says.

Green Star Communities v2 is flexible and adaptable to different types of precincts, from new residential neighbourhoods to commercial and mixed-use developments. It’s step-by-step certification process allows projects to demonstrate and track sustainability commitments as they evolve.

The rating tool aligns with international best practices, including the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), ensuring Australian precincts remain globally competitive and prepared for future environmental and economic challenges.

Green Star Communities V2 submission guidelines will be available to purchase this afternoon and registrations for v2 will open in early 2025, with projects still able to register under V1 until early 2026.

For more information, visit GBCA.

Image: nuttapong_mohock / Envato

Clémence Carayol

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