The Australian building industry has reached a significant turning point in sustainable practices, with the 2023/24 period marking a year of extraordinary progress.
According to the Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA) latest Year in Focus report, the sector has witnessed record-breaking demand for sustainability certifications, alongside notable policy advancements and innovative approaches to decarbonising the built environment.
In a landmark achievement, over 1,000 buildings, fit-outs, and precincts received Green Star certification for their sustainability credentials in a single year.
This milestone underscores the industry’s growing commitment to integrating sustainability into core practices.
Jorge Chapa, GBCA’s Chief Impact Officer, emphasised the significance of this surge: “Developers, designers, owners and investors are embracing sustainability not as an obligation but as an opportunity to deliver better outcomes for people and the planet.”
The demand for sustainability certifications has doubled compared to the previous year, with over 120 project submissions and more than 150 queries received in just three months.
The Australian government’s Net Zero in Government Operations Strategy has played a crucial role in this transformation.
By mandating Green Star standards and electrification across government-owned buildings, the policy has set new benchmarks for the industry.
Chapa highlighted the ripple effect of such policies: “They not only set high expectations for public developments but also raise the bar for private sector projects, fostering innovation and accelerating our transition to net-zero buildings.”
The GBCA has expanded its efforts globally, partnering with organisations such as the US Green Building Council, the UK’s Building Research Establishment, and the Singapore Green Building Council.
These collaborations aim to promote the importance of independent verification and certification schemes in securing finance and support for global climate goals.
As the Australian building sector continues to innovate, the achievements of 2023/24 underscore the vital role of collaboration and shared responsibility in addressing climate challenges.
Chapa concluded: “The remarkable growth we’re seeing is proof that the industry is ready to lead. But there’s more work to be done.
“By aligning our efforts, we can ensure every building, precinct and fit-out contributes to a resilient, climate-positive future.”
- 64 million square metres of building space is now Green Star-certified
- 46 per cent of CBD office space has at least one Green Star certification
- 3.4 million people visit a Green Star-rated shopping centre daily
- 930,000+ people visit and heal in Green Star-certified hospitals annually
- 935,000+ people will live or work in the 76 certified Green Star communities
- 94,000+ people will reside in Green Star-rated apartment buildings, including student residences
- 19,500+ hectares of Green Star communities have been certified
The GBCA’s Year in Focus report for 2023-24 provides a comprehensive overview of the Australian building sector’s sustainability journey, showcasing the industry’s commitment to creating a more sustainable and resilient built environment.
