NABERS and Green Star are both widely used sustainability certifications in Australian commercial real estate, but they measure different aspects of building performance.

What NABERS measures

NABERS (National Australian Built Environment Rating System) measures the actual operational performance of a building.

It is based on measured data, not design intent.

NABERS typically assesses:

• Energy use and emissions
• Water efficiency
• Waste performance
• Indoor environment quality

NABERS ratings reflect how a building performs in operation and are expressed as a star rating.

What Green Star measures

Green Star is a broader sustainability rating system that assesses a building’s design, construction and operational features.

It looks at how sustainability is designed into and managed within a building.

Green Star typically assesses:

• Design and construction outcomes
• Operational sustainability features
• Energy, water and materials
• Indoor environment quality and innovation

Green Star ratings are commonly used for new developments, major refurbishments and existing buildings.

Key difference in focus

• NABERS measures performance in use (what the building is doing now).
• Green Star assesses sustainability features and design intent, as well as operational practices.

Because of this, a building may have both certifications, with NABERS showing operational outcomes and Green Star reflecting broader sustainability credentials.

How they are used together

Many property owners and investors use:

• NABERS to track and improve ongoing performance, and
• Green Star to demonstrate holistic sustainability standards across the asset lifecycle.

Together, they provide a more complete picture of sustainability performance.