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$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Sustainable Homes recognised at HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards

Media release

Sustainable Homes recognised at HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards

Media release
Tasmania's Zanetto Builders dominated the 2026 HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards, taking home three national titles, including the coveted HIA Australian GreenSmart Home, partnered by Clipsal by Schneider Electric, for the exceptional Bluebush Passivhaus.

Designed to perform in Tasmania's cool temperate climate, the 287sqm Passive House Classic-certified residence combines contemporary architecture with exceptional building performance. Thoughtfully oriented to capture natural light and expansive views, it features super-insulated timber-framed walls, an approximate R11 roof assembly and a measured airtightness result of just 0.5 ACH@50Pa, making it one of the tightest residential buildings ever tested in Tasmania.

Triple-glazed European windows, balanced mechanical ventilation with heat recovery and a fully electrified design work together to deliver exceptional thermal comfort, indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Complemented by rooftop solar PV, heat-pump hot water, rainwater harvesting and low-VOC materials, Bluebush demonstrates how advanced building science, architectural design and sustainability can combine to create a healthy, resilient and remarkably comfortable family home.

This project was also awarded HIA Australian GreenSmart Custom Built Home, partnered by Bondor.

Continuing their outstanding success, Zanetto Builders claimed the HIA Australian GreenSmart Multi Dwelling Development for two all-electric coastal homes that challenge the convention of a single oversized dwelling. Inspired by Tasmania's traditional east coast shacks, the homes combine passive solar design, high-performance construction and carefully selected materials, while responding sensitively to their coastal setting. This category is partnered by Toyota for Business. 

Presented as part of the HIA Future Homes Forum, the HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards brought together builders, designers, manufacturers, suppliers and sustainability leaders from across Australia to celebrate excellence and explore the latest innovations shaping the future of residential construction. 

G.J. Gardner Homes Warragul, Victoria won the HIA Australian GreenSmart Display/Project Home. Designed to operate independently of the grid, this display home showcases a holistic approach to sustainable living. Solar, integrated battery storage and smart energy Housing Association Limited ACN 004 631 752 management technology work together to significantly reduce reliance on traditional electricity sources.  This category is partnered by The Australian Reinforcing Company. 

Davies Design & Construction, Tasmania won HIA Australian GreenSmart Energy Efficiency, partnered by Clipsal by Schneider Electric, for one of Tasmania's few Certified Passive House Plus homes. Behind its understated rural appearance, the home combines a high-performance building envelope, triple-glazed windows, heat recovery ventilation and rooftop solar to achieve exceptional energy efficiency and year-round comfort. 

Joe Mercieca, of Blue Eco Homes, NSW was named HIA Australian GreenSmart Professional, partnered by HIA Insurance Services, recognising more than four decades of leadership in sustainable residential construction and his ongoing commitment to advancing high-performance building practices across the industry.

Shepherd Homes, Victoria won the HIA Australian GreenSmart Renovation/Addition Project, partnered by Electrolux, for the thoughtful transformation of a heritage miner's cottage, blending careful restoration with a contemporary, energy-efficient extension to preserve the character of the home while enhancing its performance and liveability.

Nulook Homes and Solar Dwellings, Western Australia won the HIA Australian GreenSmart Sustainable Home for a 10 Star NatHERS-rated, carbon-negative home. Through passive solar design, high-performance insulation, rooftop solar and water-saving initiatives, the home achieves exceptional environmental performance on a standard suburban site. This category is partnered by ForestOne. 

HIA Managing Director Jocelyn Martin said the HIA Australian GreenSmart Awards set the benchmark for the latest in environmental design excellence, industry innovation and sustainable building practices. 

“Consumer demand for practical, affordable, smart, connected and durable environmental solutions for residential housing continues to grow. 

“Our commitment to sustainable building outcomes and leading housing innovation has not altered for more than 25 years since the HIA GreenSmart program was introduced. Our members demonstrate that quality building and design, comfort, and on-going value for money can co-exist in a sustainable built environment. 

“HIA GreenSmart Awards highlight our members who excel at delivering year-round comfortable homes into the market. Each winner and finalist is congratulated for achieving success at a national level,” concluded Ms Martin.   

View all winners

Photos of award winners or interviews can be arranged on request.

For more information please contact:

Catherine Lynch

Chief Executive – Communications & Marketing
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