7 Star Homes Program
The 7 Star Homes program works with businesses and individuals across the building and construction supply chain to increase capability and capacity for delivering energy-efficient homes.
To drive improved energy efficiency standards for new homes that were introduced under the National Construction Code (NCC) 2022, the program accelerates the transition to 7-star homes by:
- offering financial rebates to assist with upgrade costs
- providing training so that individuals and businesses have the skills and capabilities required to deliver more energy-efficient homes.
Transition to 7-star homes
The transition period to energy-efficient homes commenced on 1 October 2022 and lasts 12 months. The transition period will allow the Victorian construction industry to make necessary adjustments to bring new projects and homes in line with the new NCC 2022 standards.
From October 2023, the new standard will be mandatory for new projects. For more information visit Energy efficiency building standards.
Stream A rebates are fully subscribed. Visit Participating builders to view the list of builders and land developers collaborating with us to build 7-star homes.
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Homes built as part of this program are more than just 7-stars, or simply above minimum standard. Instead, they are holistically energy-efficient.
What does that mean?
- The homes have an enhanced thermal envelope (orientation, insulation, windows and air-tightness) meaning they maintain a comfortable internal temperature with less reliance on heating and cooling. It also means they’re filled with natural light, but shaded from harsh sun.
- The homes are also fitted with energy-efficient appliances and undergo a whole-of-home assessment. This ensures they use less energy, keeping greenhouse emission low and utility bills even lower!
- The homes' insulation and air tightness are validated through an As-built verification assessment. This ensures that homes are built to perform at the same standard they’re designed. For example, ensuring there are no gaps in insulation.
Learn more about these homes and the benefits of going from a 6-star to a 7-star home in Feature Home: 2 Sunlight Avenue, Cape Paterson.
About the program
Sustainability Victoria’s 7 Star Homes program is a $2.19 million project as part of the 2020-21 State Budget measure Clean Energy Transition Initiatives. The program builds capability and capacity within the residential building market in preparedness for an increase to minimum energy-efficiency standards.
Building on the success and learnings of the Zero Net Carbon Homes pilot program, 7 Star Homes supports builders and land developers to bring market leading, energy-efficient homes to consumers. These homes are designed on the principle that a great home design can reduce the amount of energy required to keep a home comfortable with little or no additional construction cost.