What NatHERS rating do I need for a new home in Australia?

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Sustainability

NatHERS

By George Giannakakis · M.Arch · RLA300580 · HIA Industry Judge

Last reviewed: 1 March 2026 · How we research

NatHERS explained in detail

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme is the official Australian government rating system for residential energy efficiency. Homes are rated from 0 to 10 stars based on their thermal performance. Most new homes in Australia must achieve a minimum 6-star rating, though requirements vary by state.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about nathers

Most Australian states require a minimum 6-star NatHERS rating for new homes. However, some states and territories are moving to 7-star requirements. Higher ratings (7-10 stars) mean lower heating and cooling costs. An average existing Australian home rates around 2-3 stars.

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Authoritative Sources

Verify against the binding rules in your state

BuildPilot is an independent home-build CoPilot - we publish guidance, we don't hold a building licence. Every Australian residential build must comply with the National Construction Code plus state-specific Acts and consumer-protection law. The authorities below are the primary sources of truth for the rules that actually apply to your project.

National

National Construction Code (NCC)

Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB)

The primary national set of technical building standards that every Australian build must comply with. Volume 2 covers Class 1 & 10 buildings (most homes).

Australian Standards (AS / AS-NZS)

Standards Australia

Specific material, product and method standards (e.g. AS 3700 masonry, AS 1684 timber framing) referenced by the NCC.

Housing Industry Association (HIA)

HIA

National peak body for residential builders. Publishes the most widely used home-building contracts and consumer guidance.

Master Builders Australia (MBA)

Master Builders Australia

National peak body for general builders. Publishes commercial and residential contracts and industry guidance.

By state & territory

South AustraliaSA

Consumer and Business Services (CBS)

VictoriaVIC

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

New South WalesNSW

NSW Building Commission (within Department of Customer Service)

QueenslandQLD

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)

Western AustraliaWA

Building and Energy (within Dept of Energy, Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety)

TasmaniaTAS

Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS)

Australian Capital TerritoryACT

Access Canberra (Construction Occupations Registrar)

Northern TerritoryNT

Building Practitioners Board / NT Worksafe (Building)

Links above open the public website of each authority. BuildPilot is not affiliated with these bodies and does not act on their behalf. Information on this page is general - check the current edition of the NCC and the relevant state Act for binding requirements.