These initiatives demonstrate the country’s commitment to sustainable methods and technologies, positioning Australia as a leader in the global transition towards a more environmentally responsible built environment.
Here are the top 5 Australian government programs and incentives for sustainable construction:
1. Clean Energy Finance Corporation (CEFC)
- INCENTIVE: The CEFC provides over $10 billion in finance for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and low-emission projects.
- IMPACT: In 2021-22, the CEFC committed $1.4 billion to projects that will avoid 1.8 million tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
- HOW TO CLAIM: Businesses and projects can apply for CEFC financing through the CEFC website.
2. Green Building Fund
- INCENTIVE: This program provides $50 million in grants to improve the energy efficiency of commercial office buildings.
- IMPACT: Projects supported by the fund have achieved an average 40% reduction in energy consumption.
- HOW TO CLAIM: Eligible commercial building owners and operators can apply for grants through the Green Building Fund program.
3. National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS)
- INCENTIVE: NABERS is a performance-based rating system used by over 5,000 buildings across Australia. Buildings with high NABERS ratings can access incentives such as the NSW Government’s Sustainability Advantage program, which provides rebates of up to $25,000 for achieving a 5-star NABERS rating.
- IMPACT: The NABERS rating system has helped drive significant improvements in the energy efficiency of commercial buildings in Australia.
- HOW TO CLAIM: Building owners and operators can have their buildings assessed and rated through the NABERS program to access available incentives.
4. Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF)
- INCENTIVE: The ERF has provided over $2.7 billion in incentives for projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
- IMPACT: Energy efficiency projects, including sustainable construction, make up 15% of the emissions reductions contracted under the ERF.
- HOW TO CLAIM: Businesses and projects can participate in the ERF by registering and submitting emissions reduction projects for consideration.
5. CitySwitch Green Office Program
- INCENTIVE: CitySwitch has over 1,000 signatories representing 20% of Australia’s office floor space.
- IMPACT: Signatories have achieved an average 20% reduction in energy use and 30% reduction in emissions.
- HOW TO CLAIM: Businesses can join the CitySwitch program by signing up on the CitySwitch website and committing to improving the sustainability of their office operations.
These government programs and incentives demonstrate Australia’s strong commitment to promoting sustainable construction and driving the adoption of energy-efficient and low-emission technologies in the built environment. By leveraging these initiatives, businesses and building owners can contribute to the country’s sustainability goals while also realising financial and operational benefits. If you are looking for a Perth commercial builder for a renovation, or construction fill out this form or call 0403 464 064 to get a free quote.