GBCA’s new pathway to guide developers in delivering Green Star-certified apartments

Australian developers will now be able to deliver more sustainable multi-unit residential projects with the release of the new Green Star Buildings – Apartments Pathway by the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA). The Apartments Pathway is designed to provide unit-level certification of apartments within Green Star Buildings rated projects.

GBCA’s new pathway sets out new apartment-specific requirements and targeted credits within the Green Star Buildings rating tool, addressing the growing demand for heathier, energy-efficient apartments.

GBCA’s chief impact officer Jorge Chapa said the pathway provides independent verification that individual apartments meet Green Star standards – not just the overall building.

“The pathway will equip developers with the tools they need to meet growing sustainability expectations in the residential sector. It offers independent unit-level reporting, giving buyers, banks and tenants confidence that each home meets high performance standards,” Chapa explained.

The Apartments Pathway streamlines the certification process while adding value to multi-unit developments through independent reporting. Certification under the Apartments Pathway is included in the existing Green Star Buildings registration fee, meaning there will be no additional registration or certification fee.

While developers will have access to GBCA’s promotional support and marketing materials, alongside the unit-level reports to showcase the benefits of sustainable living and differentiate their projects in a competitive market, homeowners may be eligible for green home loans, offering reduced mortgage rates and financial incentives.

The Green Star Buildings – Apartments Pathway is optional for any Class 2 multi-unit residential projects including build-to-sell, build-to-rent, affordable housing, community housing and mixed-tenure housing certifying under the Green Star Buildings rating tool. However, it is not available for student accommodation or hotels.

Projects already registered under Green Star Buildings can opt in to the Apartments Pathway by submitting an Eligibility Query via the Green Star Manager portal.

Six early access partners – Cbus Property, Homes Victoria, Lendlease, Sentinel, Frasers Property, and Stockland – are collaborating closely with GBCA to help shape the pathway and ensure it drives meaningful outcomes for sustainable apartment living.

All multi-unit residential developments registered with the GBCA from 1 January 2023 onwards and targeting 5 Star or 6 Star Green Star ratings will be delivered as fully electric buildings powered by renewable energy.

For more information, visit the GBCA website.

Consultants can access the technical release, which comprises the Green Star Buildings – Apartments Pathway Document outlining the credit requirements, via the Green Star resources portal.

The Green Star Buildings – Apartments Pathway will be launched to the broader industry and consumers in early 2025.

Image: https://geca.eco/news-and-events/gecas-new-green-star-recognised-standards-can-help-australia-to-build-back-better/