We're designing a new home in Brisbane and the client has heard it has to hit 7 stars. Is that right, and is there any concession for a Queensland climate?

Seven stars is the headline figure, but it is only one of two Deemed-to-Satisfy pathways, and in Brisbane's climate there is a concession that can bring the target down. [1] [2]

Two ways to meet the thermal performance requirement. Under H6D2, Performance Requirement H6P1 is satisfied either: [1]

• by an energy rating using house energy rating software, under Specification 42; or
• by the elemental provisions of the ABCB Housing Provisions: Part 13.2 for building fabric, Part 13.3 for external glazing and shading, Part 13.4 for building sealing and Part 13.5 for ceiling fans.

The energy rating pathway. The house must achieve at least 7 stars and also stay within the separate heating and cooling load limits, so it is three limits, not one. [2] In climate zones 1 and 2, which covers Brisbane, the minimum drops to: [2]

• 6.5 stars where the house has an outdoor living area fully covered by an impervious roof with a Total R-Value of at least 1.5 for downward heat flow; or
• 6 stars where that covered outdoor living area also has at least one permanently installed ceiling fan.

Energy usage is a separate requirement. Performance Requirement H6P2 covers the energy used by the home's fixed appliances. It is met either by a whole-of-home rating of at least 60 using house energy rating software, or, for a building of no more than 500 m², by complying with Parts 13.6 and 13.7 of the Housing Provisions. [1] [3]

Both requirements apply. A design that reaches its star rating on the envelope still has to meet the energy usage requirement.

Queensland adopted the NCC 2022 energy efficiency provisions on its own timeline, and the Queensland Development Code applies alongside the NCC. Confirm the operative date and any Queensland variation with your certifier before relying on these figures.