Sustainable Building Insights & Industry News

Smarter structural decisions can significantly reduce embodied carbon. Learn how geometry, material choices and efficient design can lower carbon, cost and material use.

The True Zero Carbon Challenge Awards Night showcased carbon positive housing built for real families: WFH, multi-generational living, and more

Why an annual net zero home can still be expensive to run and a drain on the grid, and what monthly net zero does differently.

Learn the five key design ratios that drive home performance, comfort and energy efficiency, and how to explain performance trade-offs to clients beyond the star rating.

Expressions of interest are now open for a pilot training program helping develop the future of sustainable home design and construction in Victoria.

Learn how to install pre-compressed foam tape around windows and doors for better airtightness, weather protection, thermal performance and durability.

Compare the strengths of Tasmanian Oak, Western Red Cedar, Blackbutt and Merbau to specify the right timber windows and doors for any project.

Better buildings start with better integration. Learn how treating the building envelope as a complete system improves performance and reduces risk.

Can Passivhaus become affordable and scalable in Australia? Insights from Thrive Conference on high-performance homes, embodied carbon and building better, not bigger.

High-performance homes are built on small, early decisions. Five quiet details from warm-edge spacers to layered seals — that pay back for decades.

Why airtightness matters: discover how Passivhaus principles improve comfort, reduce mould risk and boost energy efficiency.

The numbers are in. SBA's 2026 State of the Market Report reveals what separates high-performance builders from the rest — and it's not just how they build.

What builders and designers need to know about specifying healthier, lower-carbon, climate-resilient homes for new builds and retrofits.

The SBA is now a certified social enterprise, officially recognised by Social Traders for driving net zero homes across Australia's building industry.

Two derelict Victorian terrace homes in Fitzroy. Both now carbon negative, both scoring above 7 stars. Here’s what builders and designers need to know about high-performance heritage retrofit.

Wet area failures often start at the substrate. Why selection matters as much as waterproofing in retrofit and new builds.

Energy efficiency isn’t enough. Why material choices matter—and how builders can reduce carbon, waste and health impacts.

We’re navigating rising costs and uncertainty together. Why energy-efficient homes are critical in today’s market.

A look at how timber upcycling helps builders and designers get more from every harvest while supporting low-impact construction.

Learn how above membrane roof ventilation manages heat, air and moisture to reduce condensation risk and protect insulation and building performance.

A guide for residential builders on when airtight homes need mechanical ventilation, HRV systems and make-up air solutions.

Glass and frames aren’t enough. Learn how proper window installation secures airtightness, durability and thermal performance.

Sustainable building won’t scale without sustainable businesses. Why builders must design their business systems as carefully as their homes.

How builders can stop “you’re too expensive” and win better clients using education, trust and smarter website strategies.

Five essential tips for residential builders to improve cash flow, operations and team performance and prepare for success in 2026.