BASIX is a web-based design tool that ensures each new residential dwelling design meets the NSW Government's targets of up to 40% reduction in water consumption and a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, compared with the average home.

How do I know if I need a BASIX Certificate for my development proposal?

BASIX is being introduced in stages in NSW for residential development. The BASIX Timeline sets out what type of residential development must be submitted with a BASIX Certificate, and also where and when a certificate is required. If you are still not sure, call the BASIX Help Line 1300 650 908 or call the council in the area where you intend to develop.

How do I get a BASIX Certificate?

A BASIX Certificate can only be generated once a BASIX assessment has been completed, and the building design has met the sustainability requirements. To complete a BASIX assessment, go to the BASIX Tool, register and enter the project design details.

If you are new to BASIX, you can complete the tutorial, read the Data Input Checklist to see what data is required to complete the assessment or ring the BASIX Help Line, 1300 650 908 during business hours.

Where does BASIX apply?

See the BASIX Timeline

What information do I need to include in the plans I submit to council with a development application?

A development application must match the BASIX Certificate for the same proposal. This requires the development application and its plans to contain the same project name and address, project type, and details of the site area, gross floor area, roof area, number of bedrooms and total area of vegetation as are identified on the BASIX Certificate.

In addition, other commitments on the BASIX Certificate which are fundamental to the design of the proposed development must also be shown on the DA plans. These include commitments relating to things such as the installation of rainwater tanks, location and size of windows and shading devices, and the location and size of heating and cooling systems. The BASIX Certificate will indicate which commitments these are.

Can I use BASIX offline?

No. You must complete each BASIX assessment on-line at www.basix.nsw.gov.au to get a BASIX Certificate. The tutorial sets out the process step by step.

Is there such a thing as a BASIX assessor?

The BASIX tool is free and easy-to-use and does not require specialised assessors. While training is offered to help building designers and others to use the BASIX assessment tool to the best advantage, training is not a requirement or prerequisite.

How will BASIX simplify the development approval process in NSW?

For applicants, BASIX establishes a set of quantifiable targets, providing certainty by ensuring that applicants understand what is expected and how buildings must be designed in order to meet these standards.

For consent authorities, BASIX provides a comprehensive assessment of how a proposed development will perform against clearly defined sustainability indicators, minimising the need for the labour intensive assessment of individual proposals. The introduction of BASIX also saves councils from having to develop their own sets of provisions relating to particular aspects of sustainable residential design.

See BASIX in the development approval process in NSW (pdf 28kb).

Advice and Training

Where can I get advice on using the BASIX assessment tool?

Call the BASIX Help Line on 1300 650 908 during business hours, or use the on-line tutorial. There are also Help Notes help symbol available as you work through the assessment process.

Is there any advice in other languages?

There is information in English and 14 other languages on the Languages page. Also available is the Telephone Interpreting Service on 13 14 50, where an interpreter can call the BASIX Help Line 1300 650 908. Your council may also offer language assistance.

How can I find training on BASIX?

Either use the on-line tutorial or refer to our Briefings and Trainings page, to see when we are holding sessions.

Also check with professional associations and institutes for courses conducted for architects and other building designers and building professionals.

BASIX in detail

What kind of information does the BASIX assessment tool require?

In order to complete a BASIX assessment, an applicant must enter information which identifies and describes the proposal, such as:

Project name, address, lot number and Local Government Area;
Project type (for example detached house, dual occupancy dwelling);
Site area, gross floor area, roof area and number of bedrooms.

The applicant will then be required to provide more detailed information about the design of the proposal. See the Data Input Checklist for full details. This information will be entered into separate indices within the BASIX assessment relating to:

Landscape (for example area of vegetation and number of indigenous species);
Stormwater (for example collection and use of rainwater);
Water (for example use of recycled water and installation of water-efficient showerheads and tap fittings);
Thermal Comfort (for example glazing and shading details which influence the heating and cooling loads of the dwelling);
Energy (for example type of hot water system used and use of cooling and heating systems).

The BASIX tool is interactive, enabling the exchange of information between these indices. Applicants will be required to meet target scores within the Water and Energy indices, and obtain a pass in the Thermal Comfort index, by committing to measures offered in BASIX which will ensure that the development will perform in a sustainable manner once constructed.

The extent of commitments which must be made by applicants will vary depending on the size and nature of the proposed development, however proposals will meet BASIX requirements if reasonable, well-established sustainable design measures are incorporated into the design of the proposed dwelling.

How does the BASIX assessment tool work?

Based on data provided by the applicant, the BASIX tool assesses the anticipated water consumption and greenhouse gas emission levels of the proposed development. The expected thermal performance of the proposed building is also assessed. For the Water and Energy indices, points are awarded based on how the proposal is likely to perform against the average of all existing dwellings of the same type.

BASIX relies on comprehensive data sets about resource demand, occupation levels and market penetration rates of technologies provided by utility organisations, state agencies and the Australian Bureau of Statistics. A comprehensive analysis of existing technologies has also been undertaken to ensure BASIX is contemporary and reflects best practice technologies relating to sustainability.

Algorithms within the BASIX tool calculate in qualitative terms how a proposed development is likely to perform against an existing development of the same type.

How has BASIX been developed?

BASIX is an initiative of the Department of Planning and has been developed in consultation with the building industry, local government, other state agencies and utilities. Expert advice and technical information have been provided by the Department of Commerce, Department of Energy, Utilities and Sustainability, Department of Environment and Conservation, Agility, EnergyAustralia, Integral Energy and Sydney Water.

Does BASIX apply to transportable and manufactured homes?

A BASIX certificate is required for residential developments for which an application to 'erect a building' is required under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

BASIX therefore applies to any dwelling that is a 'building' as defined under that Act. BASIX does not apply if the dwelling is a 'manufactured home' or a 'moveable dwelling', as these are excluded from the 'building' definition.

To determine whether a dwelling (including a 'transportable home') is a 'building' or a 'manufactured home' or 'moveable dwelling', stakeholders will need to refer to the definitions of manufactured home' and 'moveable dwelling' under the Local Government Act 1993 (see below).

The Local Government Act 1993 defines a 'manufactured home' as:

"a self-contained dwelling (that is, a dwelling that includes at least one kitchen, bathroom, bedroom and living area and that also includes toilet and laundry facilities), being a dwelling:

(a) that comprises one or more major sections, and
(b) that is not a registrable vehicle within the meaning of the Road Transport (Vehicle Registration Act) 1997,

and includes any associated structures that form part of the dwelling."

'Major section' means:

"a single portion of a relocatable home, being a portion:

(a) that contains a total living space (excluding the living space contained in any associated structure) of at least 20 cubic metres, and
(b) that comprises all of the major components of that portion of the home, including the chassis or frame, the external or internal walls, the roof and ceilings, the floors, the windows and doors, the internal plumbing and wiring, the tiling, the kitchen, bathroom and laundry fittings (other than stoves, refrigerators, washing machines and other white goods) and the built-in cupboards and cabinets".

Manufactured homes are subject to provisions under the Local Government (Manufactured Home Estates, Caravan Parks, Camping Grounds and Moveable Dwellings) Regulation 2005, which regulate the installation of these dwellings in manufactured home estates, caravan parks, camping grounds and elsewhere. Approval under section 68 of the Local Government Act 1993 is required when a manufactured home is installed on a normal residential allotment.

Nb: The Department of Planning is currently investigating ways to improve the water and energy efficiency of manufactured homes.

How will the BASIX tool be monitored and reviewed?

BASIX will not remain static after it is introduced. Its operation will be continually monitored and the tool updated to ensure that it remains accurate and contemporary.

Analysis of the information stored in the BASIX database will help the Department to monitor the operation of not only the assessment process but also the entire BASIX scheme, when carried out in conjunction with post-occupancy research into residential building design and performance.

In addition the Department will continually evaluate new products and sustainable design technologies to decide whether they are suitable for inclusion as options within the BASIX assessment. This will allow new products and technologies, demonstrated to provide sustainable performance, to be progressively incorporated into the BASIX tool and adopted by applicants in future proposals.

How will new technologies be recognised by BASIX?

The Department will review information about new technologies submitted by applicants seeking an Alternative Assessment under the BASIX tool. In addition, product manufacturers can submit information to enable their technology to be incorporated within the BASIX tool.

Applications for product recognition need to be accompanied by detailed specifications and independent testing of each technology so that claims regarding performance can be measured and verified. Applicants should contact the Department to discuss this process. At this time, there is no application fee for new technologies to be incorporated within the BASIX tool.

If a new technology is accepted it will be incorporated within an updated BASIX tool and a number of points will be allocated in relation to the Government's potable water consumption and greenhouse emission reduction targets. It may also involve refinements to the functionality of the BASIX tool, as well as the tool's appearance.

It should be noted that changes to the way in which scores are calculated within BASIX will only occur following a process of consultation with other stakeholders such as State agencies and industry, and will be communicated in advance of taking effect.

It should also be noted that the mandatory targets within BASIX have been established by the government and will not be changed except by a decision made by the Minister for Infrastructure and Planning. It is possible that additional sustainability indices may be added to BASIX in the future, and targets may be prescribed for these indices. Again, changes to this effect will require approval by the Minister.

Any changes to the BASIX tool will have no impact on proposals for which a BASIX Certificate has already been issued. Partially completed assessments that are affected by changes will be clearly flagged.

Which operating systems and browsers does BASIX work best on?

BASIX works best on a PC with Windows XP and Internet Explorer 6.

About BASIX Certificates and commitments

What information will be on my BASIX Certificate?

If a proposal successfully meets the prescribed targets relating to water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and thermal performance, the applicant can print a BASIX Certificate confirming that the proposed development will meet the Government´s sustainability requirements if it is carried out in accordance with the commitments made during the assessment. These commitments, along with information which identifies and describes the proposal, will be shown on the BASIX Certificate.

The applicant is expected to use the information on the BASIX Certificate when preparing plans to accompany either a development application or an application for a complying development certificate.

Can I change my BASIX commitments before getting construction approval (DA development)?

If changes are made to any of the BASIX commitments originally made, the applicant will need to return to the BASIX website and obtain an updated BASIX Certificate which is consistent with the amended proposal.

The extent of any changes to the proposal will dictate whether or not the applicant also needs to seek a modification to the development consent through an application under section 96 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979. Changes which alter the DA plans are likely to require a consent to be modified under s96. This would include changes relating to things such as roof area, floor plan, or to any of the other BASIX commitments which are indicated on the plan.

An application to have the consent modified will not be necessary if a change to a BASIX commitment does not result in the proposal being inconsistent with the development consent. Whether or not this is the case will be considered when an applicant applies for a construction certificate.

Am I locked into my commitments once a construction certificate or complying development certificate has been issued?

Once a construction certificate or complying development certificate has been issued the commitments in the BASIX Certificate submitted with the application are locked in.

A construction certificate is taken to be part of a development consent and an applicant is therefore bound by the plans and specifications approved by the certificate, including the BASIX commitments.

A complying development certificate also constitutes a development consent, and therefore an applicant is bound to comply with all plans, specifications and conditions identified by the certificate, including the BASIX commitments.

If an applicant wishes to change their BASIX commitments after obtaining a construction certificate or complying development certificate, they will need to obtain a new BASIX Certificate and then apply for a new construction or complying development certificate.

Will the BASIX commitments in my certificate be checked during construction?

Like other development and building standards BASIX commitments will be checked for installation and operation as part of the certification of completed building works. The schedule of commitments accompanying the BASIX Certificate identifies the specific measures that will need to be checked or verified by the certifier.

As the plans and specifications used to obtain a construction certificate or complying development certificate list BASIX commitments there is an obligation on the applicant to ensure correct installation and operation. Failure to carry out a BASIX commitment is a breach of the development consent and could leave the applicant open to on the spot fines, the council not issuing an occupancy certificate or legal action by the council.

What sort of information should be kept to prove that my BASIX commitments have been met?

Many BASIX commitments will involve the purchase and correct installation of building elements and materials. It is important to ensure that all receipts and certificates of installation are kept for the certifier to review during inspections.

What BASIX commitments need to be met so that I can move in to my house?

An applicant cannot move into a house until an occupation certificate has been issued by the principal certifying authority. Before issuing an occupation certificate the certifier will need to check or verify that the BASIX commitments have been installed, and in some cases, operate correctly.

All BASIX commitments form part of the consent and must be complied with, however the most critical commitments must be specifically verified by the certifier. The BASIX Certificate will indicate which commitments these are.

Like any other development consent requirement, BASIX commitments can be enforced so the applicant has a responsibility to ensure that the commitments are carried out correctly.

Do I have any ongoing obligations?

BASIX commitments are checked before occupation to make sure they have been carried out. However, some types of measures will require ongoing maintenance to ensure they perform efficiently. Owners or occupiers should continue to monitor the performance of design measures and maintain them as necessary.

Meeting the BASIX targets

How do I ensure my design meets the BASIX targets?

The BASIX assessment tool is flexible and offers a range of sustainable design choices including:

using passive solar design making your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer
increasing insulation
using eaves and shading
installing rainwater tanks for use in gardens, toilet and/or laundry
using greywater tanks for garden use
using gas or solar hot water systems
installing water-saving showerheads, taps and dual-flush toilets
improving window glazing
using light coloured roof materials to reduce cooling costs
installing skylights to bring in natural light
using landscaping that requires less water

How do I pass the Energy section of the BASIX assessment?

A minimum score of 25% for Energy is required by BASIX.

A typical single dwelling design will meet this target if it includes:

an efficient hot water system; and
design features that make the most of natural heating, cooling, and lighting.

Lists of efficient fittings and fixtures and energy–efficient design are also available on other websites – see the Links page.

How do I pass the Water Section of the BASIX assessment?

Because BASIX recognises the differences in rainfall and evaporation rates around NSW, the Water targets vary according to location.

A typical single dwelling design will meet the target for water conservation if it includes:

showerheads, tap fittings and toilets with at least a 3A rating;
a rainwater tank or alternative water supply for outdoor water use and toilet flushing and/or laundry.

Note: In the very dry areas of NSW, a typical single dwelling may not require a rainwater tank.

Click here to find out the BASIX water target for your location.

Lists of efficient fittings and fixtures and water–efficient design are also available on other websites – see the Links page.

How do I pass the Thermal Comfort section of BASIX?

To complete the Thermal Comfort section of the BASIX assessment, you can either choose the Simulation method or the Deemed to Comply method.

If you choose Simulation, you will need to engage an Accredited Assessor to conduct a NatHERS assessment of your proposed development. Details from your NatHERS certificate can be entered in the Simulation section of Thermal Comfort.

If you choose Deemed to Comply, then you must enter in the specific data about your proposed development into the BASIX tool. The Deemed to Comply Method is only intended for simple home designs. If your home has special design features that go beyond the limitations of the tool, then you will need to use the Simulation Method. Visit the ABSA website for more information on NatHERS.

Does BASIX mean I cannot install air-conditioning?

No, but to reach the required score for Energy, you may need to install a more efficient cooling or heating system.

Do I have to install a rainwater tank in order to comply with BASIX

No, but installing a rainwater tank can be the most effective way to reach the required score for Water.

Does BASIX replace NatHERS?

No. To pass the Thermal Comfort section of the BASIX assessment, you can use the Simulation Method and enter in the details from a NatHERS certificate issued by an Accredited Assessor for an assessment done for your proposed development. See How do I pass the Thermal Comfort section of BASIX?

Does BASIX mean I can't install a swimming pool?

No. You can install a swimming pool, but it will lower your scores for Water and Energy. You will then have to make up for this loss by making other efficiencies in the dwelling design.

How do I know which plant species are indigenous to my area?

Click here for a list of indigenous or low water use plant species. Each local government area has a different list.

Alternative Assessment under BASIX

What is the BASIX Alternative Assessment?

The Department's alternative assessment process will enable the qualitative as well as quantitative assessment of development proposals which can't be described to the BASIX assessment tool. The process is only available to proposals that have not reached the water and energy targets. Proposals assessed under this alternative method will still be required to meet prescribed sustainability targets, albeit by means other than those available through the interactive BASIX assessment tool. There is no fee for an Alternative Assessment.

What types of proposals may need to be assessed under the Alternative Assessment?

The alternative assessment will be appropriate where either the proposed development is of a type which cannot be characterised by the interactive assessment tool, or where a proposal includes water and energy saving measures which are not reflected in the BASIX tool.

What is the process for an Alternative Assessment?

Applications for alternative assessment must be made through the application form on the Alternative Assessment page on the BASIX tool. At a minimum, applicants will be required to enter project identification details and a description of the proposal. Applicants are also required to complete as much of a standard BASIX assessment as possible. The applicant then completes and submits the preliminary application form to describe and verify the alternative measures in relation to the proposal's baseline 'footprints' and the Government's water and energy targets.

The Department assesses the application and will contact the applicant within 3 working days. In many cases the Department can recommend ways of meeting the water and energy targets without having to use a technology or solution that can't be described to the BASIX assessment tool.

If an alternative assessment is appropriate for the development proposal, the Department will provide the applicant with more information and assessment criteria to describe and justify and water and energy reduction of the new technology or solution.

It should be noted that the Department's alternative assessment process is only applicable in relation to the Water and Energy indices of BASIX. However in the Thermal Comfort Index, the 'Simulation' method is the alternative to the 'Deemed to Comply' methods and an Expert Opinion process is already available as part of the Simulation method if the approved software (e.g. NatHERS) is determined to be inappropriate.