GBCA welcomes re-election of Albanese Government and continued focus on sustainable buildings

05 May 2025

The Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) congratulates the Albanese Government on its re-election and welcomes the clear mandate it has received to continue delivering meaningful progress in sustainable building policy.

Over the past three years, the Albanese Government has recognised the central role buildings play in improving affordability, resilience and wellbeing. From sustainable procurement and electrification to skills development and low-carbon manufacturing, the Government has laid strong foundations for a more sustainable built environment.

“We welcome the opportunity to continue this important work and to go further in accelerating the shift to healthier, more efficient and climate-resilient buildings,” says GBCA Chief Executive Officer, Davina Rooney.

“Nearly half of the recommendations in Every Building Counts – our policy roadmap for a zero-carbon-ready built environment – are already on a pathway to delivery. This next term presents a significant opportunity to scale that progress.”

GBCA looks forward to working with the Albanese Government to progress the next phase of policy reform, with a focus on:

  • finalising a built environment sector plan, with targets for both operational and upfront carbon,
  • strengthening and implementing regular updates to the National Construction Code,
  • fully funding NABERS and the ABCB to maintain progress and avoid regulatory fragmentation,
  • introducing a national rating and mandatory disclosure for existing home energy performance,
  • embedding circular economy principles into procurement and construction to support low-carbon materials and local manufacturing,
  • investment in a future-ready workforce to meet growing demand for sustainable buildings.

“A clear strategy for sustainable buildings can lower bills, cut emissions and strengthen energy security,” Ms Rooney adds.

“With the right policies and continued leadership, Australia is well placed to deliver buildings that are healthier, more efficient and resilient for the long term.”

To read GBCA’s full policy platform for the 2025 federal election, visit gbca.au/policy/policy-priorities