The Energy and Climate Change Ministerial Council (ECMC) has recently updated its Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings. This plan aims for a net-zero emissions building sector by 2050, promoting not just energy efficiency but also lower costs and improved comfort for all Australians.
The Trajectory focuses on five key goals:
- Lower energy costs for households and businesses.
- Drive emissions towards net zero.
- Manage electricity grid demand.
- Keep people healthy and safe from climate issues.
- Ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of better energy performance.
Back in 2019, the Commonwealth, State, and Territory governments united on a vision for sustainable buildings, targeting zero-energy and low-carbon standards by 2050. The 2025 update is a chance to enhance this initial ambition by focusing on:
- Reducing building emissions.
- Cutting energy use.
- Ensuring safety.
- Promoting sustainability.
- Boosting productivity.
According to a report from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, energy costs have risen significantly over the past decade, making this initiative more urgent than ever. Furthermore, a recent survey from the Clean Energy Council revealed that 78% of Australians support the transition toward low-energy buildings, indicating a strong public interest in sustainability.
As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, the health benefits of energy-efficient buildings should not be overlooked. Buildings designed with energy efficiency in mind can help reduce respiratory illnesses and other health risks associated with poor indoor air quality.
For more information on building energy performance and energy transition policies, you can visit the Department of Energy for additional insights and updates.
Overall, the updated Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings marks a critical step towards a more sustainable future, aligning economic benefits with environmental responsibility.

