← All Insights

Sustainability

BASIX and 7-Star Energy Ratings in NSW: What New Home Builders Need to Know

A simple guide to BASIX, NatHERS, energy efficiency, water targets, thermal comfort, materials, and what they mean for new homes in NSW.

TL;DR BASIX is NSW's sustainability assessment system for residential buildings. It looks at water, energy, thermal performance, and materials reporting. New homes now need stronger energy performance than older homes, and design decisions such as orientation, insulation, glazing, shading, ventilation, appliances, hot water, and solar can affect compliance. BASIX should be considered early, not treated as paperwork at the end. Introduction Many people building a new home hear the word BASIX late in the process. That is a mistake. BASIX affects design, windows, insulation, heating and cooling loads, water use, energy use, and sometimes material reporting. If the design does not perform well, changes may be needed before approval. For Sydney custom homes, BASIX should be considered durin…