This paper investigated the relationship between house size, star ratings and renewable energy systems to identify a range of affordable low carbon housing scenarios for the Australian market, specifically focusing on Zero (net) Energy Housing (ZEH) for Melbourne, Victoria.

This paper discusses the findings of a recently completed AHURI research project on downsizing involving analysis of ABS data, and a national mail survey together with in-depth interviews and policy forums in three states of Australia (New South Wales, Victoria and South Australia).

Although it is popularly thought that older people prefer to downsize to smaller dwellings, the evidence suggests there is a reluctance to do so (Judd et al. 2010). This is partly because of the strong attachments to their existing home and the need for space for post-retirement activities important for health and wellbeing. This study...