We write our future together

An incredible 430 Green Star certifications, a new Green Star Homes standard and 11 consecutive years at the top of the GRESB table are just three of the big achievements we delivered with members of the Green Building Council of Australia this year.

Together, over nearly two decades, we’ve collectively created 55.5 million sqm of Green Star-rated building space, and the number of people who live, work, shop, learn and heal in Green Star buildings grows exponentially.

These accomplishments – outlined in our latest Green Star: A Year in Focus report – would always be worthy of applause but are especially gratifying in another year challenged by Covid-19.

But the achievement that brings me the most pride in 2021 is our member satisfaction rating, revealed in our latest member survey. At 90%, member satisfaction is now the highest on record. What’s more, 95% of members – not to mention 100% of our team – are aligned with our purpose to lead the sustainable transformation of the built environment. We set our strategy through our members voices and take this alignment into our strategy session in March. 

There is a lot to be excited about in 2022. We will continue to focus on our four priorities – educate, advocate, rate and collaborate – while also working closely with members and partners to identify those areas we need to lift and shift. 

We have two new board members – Built’s CEO and Managing Director Brett Mason and Arup’s Principal and Trustee Director Peter Bailey – and an ambitious agenda. We will be listening to you, our members, every step of the way. 

Being on the same page is important, because we have some big tasks to tackle in 2022: climate action and adaptation, resilience and circular economy, embodied materials and more.

With one eye on the horizon, we are also taking the time to reflect on the stories of our past, especially as 2022 marks the GBCA’s 20th birthday. 

In this final issue of Green Building Voice for 2021, we are excited to launch our program for TRANSFORM 2022, which will be held in Sydney and online from 23-24 March. Our stellar line-up of speakers includes the GBCA’s two former CEOs, Maria Atkinson and Romilly Madew. These leaders, and many others, will be joining us to reflect on the lessons we’ve learnt together on the journey so far and to throw down some challenges for the next stage of our growth.

On behalf of the team at the GBCA, I wish to thank all our members for their hard work, commitment and support during another eventful year. Put your feet up over the festive season because the hard work will recommence early in 2022 as we write our future together.