A national approach for assessing and disclosing the energy performance of homes in Australia, this framework aims to promote energy efficiency by providing consumers with consistent information via energy ratings and certificates, thereby encouraging upgrades and reducing energy consumption, costs, and emissions. 

The report notes that energy performance disclosure is not currently mandatory in most Australian states and territories, limiting consumer awareness and upgrade incentives. It recommends parameters for disclosure schemes to be implemented by state and territory governments. 

Version 2 of the framework expands on the initial framework to include apartment buildings, as well as single dwellings.

Key recommendations

• Governments should implement disclosure schemes based on the parameters in this framework, whether on a voluntary or mandatory basis.
• Parameters for disclosure schemes include dwelling type, disclosure triggers, and energy rating and assessments.
• Delivery partners, including assessors and real estate agents, should prepare for their roles in disclosure.
• The social and affordable housing sectors should be engaged to better define the disclosure pathway.
• Communications should be developed to explain the ratings and the benefits of energy efficiency upgrades.
• Stakeholders should actively engage in the pilot programs and provide feedback.