Energy performance disclosure in Australian homes

Improving the energy performance of Australian homes will make them more comfortable, healthier to live in, cheaper to run, and reduce emissions. Common Capital was engaged by the Australian Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, on behalf of the Australian, state and territory governments to conduct a cost: benefit analysis of voluntary and mandatory disclosure of energy performance information when homes are sold or leased.

Key takeaways

  • There is a net economic benefit nationally and in all jurisdictions, for implementing mandatory disclosure at point of sale for single dwellings and apartments combined.
  • Energy performance disclosure can unlock upgrades in households that deliver up to $1 billion in health benefits and $578 million in energy, network and emissions benefits nationally, for a 10-year scheme.
  • A disclosure scheme could have an enabling role in improving the effectiveness, efficiency and distributional equity of government programs and private sector upgrade and financing services.