BASIX & Sustainability

BASIX

What is BASIX?

BASIX, the Building Sustainability Index, is a NSW government planning requirement that ensures homes are designed to use less potable water and be responsible for fewer greenhouse gas emissions by setting energy and water reduction targets.  Further information can be found on the BASIX website.

When does BASIX apply?

All residential developments, both new and alterations and additions, with a total estimated cost of works of over $50,000, all new boarding houses, guest houses, hostels, lodging-houses and backpacker accommodation under 300m2, and all swimming pools and spas 40,000 litres or larger are required to have a BASIX Certificate.  If your development type falls within the categories listed above, then a BASIX Certificate must be supplied on lodgment of the development application. 

How does BASIX work?

The BASIX tool is an online program that is free and accessible to anyone. Information about the design of the development such as location, size, building materials etc are entered into the tool.  BASIX then analyses this data and determines how it scores against the Energy and Water targets. The design must pass specific targets (which vary according to location and building type) before the user can print the BASIX Certificate.  It is recommended that the building designer works through the BASIX tool during the design process, to ensure a simple and speedy evaluation.

What are the BASIX design options?

BASIX is flexible tool that offers a range of choices including using:

  • insulation
  • window glazing
  • eaves and window shading
  • wastewater for garden use
  • light coloured roof materials
  • skylights to bring in natural light
  • landscaping that requires less water
  • passive solar design to make your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer

BASIX encourages the use of these fixtures:

  • gas or solar hot water systems
  • rainwater tanks for use in gardens, toilet and/or laundry
  • water-saving shower heads, taps and dual-flush toilets

The BASIX Certificate

At the end of the BASIX process the result is a list of commitments that have been made to ensure the development meets the energy and water targets.  The Certificate identifies whether these commitments are required to be shown on the DA or CC/CDC plans.  Council's Planners will check to ensure the DA requirements have been met.  A Certifier will make sure that the CC/CDC requirements are met, and will also check during various stages of construction.

The Certificate must have the correct address to which it applies and show Canada Bay Council as the local government area.  Before printing your Certificate you should also ensure it has a Certificate number.

Key points to remember

  • You must include a BASIX Certificate when lodging your development application at Council
  • The plans must show the BASIX commitments
  • Any changes to the design of the development will mean that a new BASIX assessment must be completed and submitted to Council
  • The data input checklist, available on the website, lists all of the information required by the BASIX tool
  • The BASIX website has an on-line tutorial and other resources that will help you complete the assessment

Where to go for help

Sustainable Development

The City of Canada Bay encourages the use of sustainable development principles and practices for all development from new building construction to minor renovation works.  We have compiled a small list of websites which we hope you will find useful for your next project.

Information and Resources

For more information on building or renovating with sustainable development in mind, please visit the following sites:

  • Your Development - information on how to create sustainable urban residential developments
  • Energy Smart - for tips and information on making your home energy smart
  • Your Home - guide materials and tools to encourage environmentally sustainable design, construction and renovation of homes
  • Our Rouse - information on a wide range of environmental topics
  • Department of Environment & Climate Change/Households & Communities - topics from appliance star ratings to energy efficient rental properties
  • NatHERS -  nationwide house energy rating scheme
  • Ecospecifier - eco-friendly products, materials, technologies and resources
  • HIA GreenSmart - a program by the Housing Industry Association to promote environmental solutions for residential design and construction
  • Save Power - a NSW Government initiative providing information and advice on how to save power

Rebates and Funding

There are a number of different rebates and forms of funding that you may apply for to assist you in building or renovating sustainably: