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There are a range of home energy efficiency rating, scoring, assessment and advice products currently available. Some use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to input data about a home, while others offer you the chance to do an online self-assessment.
These tools make many assumptions and provide a general estimate of how your home might perform. They can be a useful starting point for understanding your energy use but cannot provide a like-for-like comparison rating with other properties.
This is where a Home Energy Rating is different. Unlike other rating, scoring or assessment products, a Home Energy Rating can only be produced by government-accredited assessors, using approved tools supported by CSIRO science, with information gathered from a home inspection, and underpinned by a quality assurance framework. This means households, industry and governments can trust and use the ratings with confidence.
Government backed and trusted
Home Energy Rating assessments are delivered under the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), the national framework for assessing and rating home energy performance. NatHERS has been around for over 30 years, providing ratings for new homes and major renovations. In 2025 it was expanded to also offer ratings for existing homes.
Comprehensive tailored assessments
Unlike other products, a Home Energy Rating assessment can only be produced by government-trained and accredited professionals. Data is gathered during an onsite home visit. The information is then entered into a software tool which uses CSIRO-science to generate the certificate. A Home Energy Rating Certificate with upgrade guidance tailored to your home is provided.
Learn more about measuring the energy efficiency of existing homes.
Setting the national benchmark
As governments explore ways to improve transparency in the housing market, a Home Energy Rating is recognised as the national benchmark for understanding and sharing a home’s energy rating. Home Energy Rating enables like-for-like comparison of the energy performance of different properties, it is market-tested across Australia for major climate zones and various types of homes, and is underpinned by a quality assurance framework. State and territory governments are considering the introduction of the mandatory disclosure of a Home Energy Rating in property listings. Over time, this could support a broader expansion of disclosure requirements across Australia.
What you get with a Home Energy Rating
If you book a Home Energy Rating, below are some of the benefits you can expect:
• engagement with an expert with experience in home energy efficiency
• reliable information about how your home is actually performing
• information about expected energy use and running costs
• guidance on upgrades that could reduce energy bills and improve comfort
• a certificate that shows your home’s Home Energy Rating and Star Rating.
• a nationally recognised rating which can be used if you intend to sell or rent your home.
When to consider an assessment
You might consider booking a Home Energy Rating assessment when you are:
• looking to improve comfort and reduce energy bills
• planning a renovation and want to understand which upgrades could have the biggest impact
• building a new home and looking to maximise energy performance
• putting on solar PV/a battery or upgrading appliances
• applying for a green loan or other sustainability-focused finance products.
• moving into a home or selling or renting out your home.
For more information, see Choosing the Right Home Energy Rating.
You can also see helpful upgrade examples for single dwellings, townhouses and apartments and learn how a Home Energy Rating can support the best decisions for your home.
Last updated
02 Nov 2026