Planning and Development

What is Basix?

FROM July 1, 2005, all new residential developments in the Wentworth Shire will be subject to the new New South Wales' Building Sustainability Index.

Dubbed BASIX, the index is an initiative of the State Government and a planning tool that sets minimum requirements for water usage, thermal comfort and energy efficiency for anyone building a new home.

It is virtually a check list for new home design that aims to save residents money on energy bills like electricity and gas as well as protecting the environment.

To assist designers and potential homeowners to better understand BASIX, the Shire now has available a brochure outlining the initiative. These are available from Council's headquarters in Adelaide Street, Wentworth, or its Midway branch office.

From July 1, if you are building a new home, you need a BASIX Certificate to submit with your development application.

There are two ways to secure a certificate:

Your building designer can do this for you.

Go to www.basix.nsw.gov.au and login to the BASIX assessment tool.

Complete the assessment form by entering the design details of the home.
The tool demonstrates how the proposed design is scoring, according to its potential to save energy and water.
Once the design meets the targets, you can print your BASIX Certificate.
Lodge your proposal at Council with the BASIX Certificate.

To get a BASIX Certificate you must demonstrate your proposed home is designed and will be built to save energy and water.

The information required includes site location, dwelling size, floor area, landscaped area and services and the BASIX commitments shown on the Certificate must be clearly marked on the design plans.

Council staff will not be to accept a development application without a BASIX Certificate.

The BASIX website has an on-line tutorial and other resources that will help homeowners complete the assessment, or ring the BASIX Help Line during business hours on 1300 650 908.

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