FirstRate5
Sustainability Victoria worked hard over the past year to upgrade FirstRate house energy software and align it with the national benchmark software, AccuRate.
The new look FirstRate5 includes the AccuRate calculation engine plus a host of new features including:
- the ability to zone the house according to how each room will be used
- the ability to rate up to 10 stars
- the full range of AccuRate climate zone (69 in Australia, and 11 in Victoria, instead of 5)
While we've upgraded the features of the FirstRate software, we've ensured that the system continues to incorporate the features our users prefer, including ease of use, optimising designs, and the ability to enter data through drawings or tables.
The rating is independent of the size and type of housing. This means that all housing has the potential to achieve a good energy efficiency rating.
Builders, designers, architects, building surveyors, planners and anyone with an interest in energy efficient house design can use the FirstRate software.
FirstRate5 presents opportunities for cost savings that Assessors can pass on to builders and home owners
Research findings[1] have concluded that savings of between $1,500 and $2,800 can be made for houses in Victoria rated using the most up to date energy rating software available - the second generation House Energy Rating Software (HERS), FirstRate5.
While this research looked primarily at one feature, the ability to disconnect sub-floor from the attic space, it was found that savings are possible for all new homes when using FirstRate5.
[1] Report on the effect of reduced subfloor ventilation on the energy rating of houses in Victorian Climates. Tony Isaacs Consulting, March 2008. 
Download the report (900KB) Download the Sustainability Victoria FirstRate5 case study (157KB)
How much will FirstRate5 cost?
With the incorporation of the AccuRate calculation engine into FirstRate, the price of software has increased. The new FirstRate5 house energy rating software retails for $550 (including GST and postage).
The original FirstRate house energy rating software and user manual retails for $300 (including GST and postage).
Training
FirstRate5 training is available through a Short Course in Thermal Building Performance Assessment (FirstRate5) statewide.
Download an overview of the course:
For a list of training providers and their contact details, go to FirstRate Training Providers.
How will FirstRate5 affect me?
Most homes rate the same as before or better, but some will rate a little worse. This is due to the introduction of zoning. Because of this, 'passive design' (e.g. living areas on north) is better rewarded and the rating will take a bit longer.
Can I continue to use old FirstRate?
FirstRate version 4 can continue to be used by Victorian accredited energy raters operating for assessing dwellings under the 5 Star standard until 30 April 2009. We recommend that all assessors begin using second generation software as soon as possible.
How do I become accredited in other States and Territories?
You will need to check with your local planning authority or building surveyor to find out about accreditation in your state or territory. For more information visit the Association of Building Sustainability Assessors (ABSA) - phone 1300 760 012 or email support@absa.net.au.
Technical support
FirstRate and FirstRate5 technical support is available for users experiencing issues with the software installation, printing and other technical problems. Help support is also available for FirstRate and FirstRate5 users seeking advice on difficult ratings.
For support, email firstrate@sustainability.vic.gov.au.
For latest updates on the program click here.
Top | Last updated 27/03/2009
