Date: 2008-05-06
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The Brumby Government is leading the way in launching new energy efficiency laws for home alterations and relocations which will help reduce Victorian households’ greenhouse gas emissions. Planning Minister Justin Madden has announced 5 Star standards for home renovations and relocations which came into effect in the Building Code of Australia on 1 May, 2008.
(Media-Newswire.com) - The Brumby Government is leading the way in launching new energy efficiency laws for home alterations and relocations which will help reduce Victorian households’ greenhouse gas emissions.
Planning Minister Justin Madden has announced 5 Star standards for home renovations and relocations which came into effect in the Building Code of Australia on 1 May, 2008.
“The new energy efficiency laws are important as an anticipated 40,000 homes are renovated, extended or relocated each year,” Mr Madden said.
“As we face the reality of climate change, 5 Star energy rating for renovations and relocated homes are crucial as households account for a third of Victoria’s energy use.
“The new energy efficiency laws for the building fabric of home alterations will further reduce greenhouse gas emissions while delivering greater comfort and lower energy costs to Victorians.”
Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings said the benefits of greener homes have been tried and tested with more than 100,000 new homes in Victoria built to a 5 Star standard
“Feedback from residents of 5 Star homes says they experience more comfortable and healthier places to live while reducing their household’s energy bills and environmental impact,” Mr Jennings said.
All building projects to alter a home including an extension that requires a building permit will be required to comply with the new energy efficiency regulations.
Mr Madden said the Make Your Home Green resource was also now available online.
“The Make Your Home Green online resource brings together sustainability information for consumers and will help many more Victorian households reduce their energy use,” Mr Madden said.
“It provides market goers and the wider community with information and regulatory advice on steps to take to make homes greener. Reducing a homes environmental footprint is crucial, as the sustainability of our built environment plays an important role in the sustainability of our future.
“These latest sustainability initiatives show the Brumby Government is serious about taking action to improve the sustainability of Victorian homes and, importantly, further reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Mr Madden said growing numbers of Victorians are recognising the benefits of going green.
“The latest Building Commission pulse research confirms this, with 86 per cent of the consumer’s surveyed highly valuing sustainable building,” he said.
The Brumby Government made a commitment in its Victorian Greenhouse Policy in June 2005 to require alterations and relocations to achieve the 5 Star energy standards.
Victorians who plan to build a new home, extend or renovate should contact a building designer, builder or building surveyor for advice on 5 Star compliance.
Information is also available at the Building Commission on 1300 360 380, or visit www.buildingcommission.com.au.
To find out more about making your home sustainable, visit www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au.