24 Jul 2026
The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) has reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the decarbonisation of Australia’s built environment, following the Australian Government’s announcement of a consultation on the future of the Climate Active program.
The consultation paper proposes significant changes to Climate Active, including ending voluntary Climate Active certification and discontinuing the Climate Active brand.
GBCA Chief Executive Officer Davina Rooney said that while the consultation may change how climate claims are certified, the task facing Australia’s built environment remains the same.
“Buildings have a critical role to play in Australia’s transition to net zero, and the need to reduce emissions has not changed,” Ms Rooney said.
“Across our industry, organisations are already taking practical steps to use less energy, electrify buildings, switch to renewable energy, reduce upfront carbon, and better measure and reduce their emissions. That work must continue, regardless of the future shape of Climate Active.”
Many of these actions are already recognised and rewarded through Green Star and drive meaningful decarbonisation across the property sector.
“What matters is that climate action is credible, transparent and delivers real emissions reductions,” Ms Rooney said.
“The market is increasingly looking for clear evidence of performance. Our focus is on ensuring Green Star continues to give industry a trusted and practical framework for delivering lower-emissions buildings and demonstrating progress.”
GBCA recognises the consultation will raise questions for organisations currently participating in Climate Active and those considering certification. The Australian Government has proposed transitional arrangements and is seeking industry feedback before making final decisions about the program.
While the future of the program is under consultation, GBCA will pause accepting new applications for Climate Active certification.
GBCA will work closely with Government, NABERS, members and industry partners throughout the consultation process to understand the implications of any changes, including how they interact with existing Green Star pathways, and will provide future information as decisions are made.
“We welcome the opportunity to contribute to the consultation and help ensure the path forward supports ambitious, credible climate action,” Ms Rooney said.
“Our industry has built significant momentum towards a lower-carbon future. We want to make sure that momentum continues, with clear and credible frameworks that support organisations to take action and demonstrate the difference they are making.”
GBCA will continue to engage with stakeholders throughout the consultation period and provide further information as details become available.