Sources
The building code, government and industry sources behind the Design Considerations guides.
The Design Considerations guides draw on published building code, government and industry sources. The main ones are listed here. Requirements change with each edition of the building code and with state and territory rules, so check the current version for your own project.
Building code and ratings
- Australian Building Codes Board: the National Construction Code and its supporting material, including the Livable Housing Design Standard
- NatHERS: the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme, its star ratings and climate zones
- Energy Rating: energy labels for appliances, including air conditioners
- Window Energy Rating Scheme: certified performance of windows and doors
- Standards Australia: the Australian Standards the code calls up, such as those for bushfire construction and plumbing
Design guidance
- Your Home: the Australian Government's guide to designing and building sustainable homes
Climate
- Bureau of Meteorology: climate statistics for Canberra and the region
ACT
- ACT Planning: the Territory Plan, building regulation and energy efficiency ratings
- ACT Legislation Register: the Territory Plan's technical specifications, including solar access
- Access Canberra: construction requirements and neighbourhood noise standards
- ACT Climate Choices: ACT Government guidance on efficient heating, cooling and hot water
NSW
- NSW Planning Portal: BASIX and the NSW planning and approval system
Health and population
- Australian Bureau of Statistics: disability and ageing statistics
- World Health Organization: Housing and Health Guidelines