Laura Timberlake
Articles by Laura Timberlake | Page 39
Help for home builders
The Federal Government has announced a tax-free grant program to assist the residential construction industry during the coronavirus pandemic. Eligible owner-occupiers (including first home buyers) can apply for the $25,000 HomeBuilder grant to build a new home or renovate an existing one. State and territory governments will need to sign the National Partnership Agreement with […]
Cut your energy expenditure
Sustainability Victoria has revamped its business energy usage website to assist organisations with reducing energy costs and improving productivity. Energy rates have been on the rise, but the Victorian government’s $6.1 million Boosting Business Productivity program has helped businesses save $2.33 million on their annual energy bills. This was achieved by conducting energy reviews with […]
BBC series to explore impact of green buildings
The World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) is collaborating with BBC StoryWorks to produce a film series about sustainable buildings and construction. The series launches later this year, and will recognise the impact buildings can have on both the quality of people’s lives and our natural environment, particularly in the mitigation of and adaption to climate […]
Putting the AC in accessories
Fujitsu has developed a wearable cooling device called the Cómodo gear that can be worn around the neck. It uses uses ventilation, water cooling and Peltier elements to lower body temperature. The device cools the blood flowing through the carotid artery and sends the heat to a water-cooled heat sink worn on the waist. It […]
Expanding the NCC energy pathway
The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) is compiling input from members on a NABERS-proposed update to a verification method in the 2022 National Construction Code (NCC). NABERS is proposing a modification of JV1 NABERS Energy for Offices. The method currently uses Commitment Agreements to demonstrate energy efficiency requirements for office buildings. The […]
China to tackle HFCs
China has proposed a national plan to deal with hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs). The plan recommends adjusting the existing regulations dealing with Ozone Depleting Substances (ODS) to cover HFCs, and to strengthen monitoring and enforcement of existing measures. It also proposes adding HFCs to existing regulations consistent with implementation of the Kigali Amendment, including a quota system […]
Next step in Australia’s emissions reduction
The Australian government has released a series of recommendations from the Report of the Expert Panel examining additional sources of low cost abatement. A panel chaired by former Business Council of Australia president, Grant King, looked at ways to incentivise low-cost abatement across the country, with a focus on the industrial, manufacturing, transport and agriculture […]
The Future of NABERS Energy
The National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) is seeking submissions for The Future of NABERS Energy (FoNE) paper. The FoNE project seeks to adapt NABERS Energy to match changes in the industry. NABERS Energy currently uses the National Greenhouse Accounts (NGA) emissions factors to compare buildings that use different mixes of energy sources. These […]
Whose leak is it anyway?
AIRAH is holding a Streamline webinar called “Who’s Leak is it Anyway?” on Thursday, May 21. The webinar will cover what the ever-increasing emphasis on energy efficiency and building performance means for HVAC professionals. The session will explore what is expected of HVAC professionals, building air tightness and the main failure points of HVAC professionals. […]
ASHRAE’s guide to reopening buildings
The ASHRAE Epidemic Task Force has developed guidance on how to reduce potential health risks when buildings reopen after the COVID-19 pandemic. 2019–20 ASHRAE President Darryl Boyce says we have reached a time where planning for a safe return to normal activities has become a priority. “Safe operation of HVAC and building water management systems […]
Advertisements
Recent news
- Fujitsu General extends partnership with Essendon FC
- Researchers develop new cooling fabric for clothing
- Panasonic releases splittable R32 ducted system
Latest events
- Melbourne School of Design to host ASA2025 conference
- HVAC&R industry’s finest shine at 2025 AIRAH National Awards
- Nominations open for ARBS Awards 2026

