Council required Sustainable Design Assessments
Why Sustainable Design Assessments Matter
In Victoria, local councils are increasingly prioritizing sustainability in the planning and development process. As part of this shift, many councils require a Sustainable Design Assessment (SDA), Environmental Sustainable Design (ESD) or Sustainability Management Plan (SMP) to be submitted with planning applications. These documents ensure that new buildings contribute to healthier communities, lower environmental impact, and long-term energy efficiency
At Geokal Services, we have many years experience working directly with yourself and your council to ensure your project complies with the local SDA requirements regardless the size of your project.
Why Are SDAs Required?
Sustainable Design Assessments are more than just paperwork—they’re a proactive step toward smarter, greener development. Councils require them to:
- Improve energy and water efficiency in new buildings
- Reduce greenhouse gas emissions and urban heat
- Enhance indoor environmental quality for occupant health
- Promote responsible material use and waste reduction
- Support long-term affordability through lower utility bills
By embedding sustainability early in the design phase, SDAs help councils meet broader climate goals while ensuring developments are future-ready.
What Councils Are Looking For
Most Victorian councils expect SDA submissions to demonstrate:
- A minimum BESS score or similar (often 50% overall, with category minimums)
- NatHERS 7 Star or higher thermal performance
- Water-efficient fixtures and landscaping
- Passive design strategies (orientation, shading, ventilation)
- Waste and material management plans
- Indoor air quality and daylight access
How We Help
As a qualified Thermal Performance Assessors and Green Star Accredited Professional (GSAP), we guide clients through SDA preparation by undertaking detailed assessments of your project to ensure buildability and compliance. Our services include:
- BESS assessments and reporting
- NatHERS energy ratings and thermal modeling
- If required Blower door testing for airtightness
- Daylight modelling and IEQ credits
- Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) assessments
- Client-ready reports for council submission
Whether you're designing a townhouse or a multi-residential development, we help you meet council obligations while building smarter, healthier, and more efficient homes.