The Department of Finance has updated the Green Lease Schedules to align with the Net Zero in Government Operations Strategy.
The Strategy states that from 1 January 2025, a lease entered into by entities for office space of 1000 square metres or more of net lettable area for four or more years must contain a Green Lease Schedule. This applies to non-corporate Commonwealth entities.
Other government bodies, like corporate Commonwealth entities and Commonwealth companies, are encouraged to use them too.
Overview of Green Lease Schedules
A Green Lease Schedule is a formal commitment between tenants and building owners. It sets a minimum energy performance standard for the building. These schedules help both parties work together to make office buildings more energy efficient.
The Australian Government has used green leases since 2006. The updated schedules are part of its ongoing energy efficiency efforts.
Updated Green Lease Schedules
There are different versions of the Green Lease Schedules to suit various types of leases and office setups. There are versions that:
- Work for net or gross leases
- Include Energy Management Plans to help meet energy goals
- Impose varied practical and proportionate measures
Completing a Green Lease Schedule
Before signing a lease, negotiators and advisers should:
- Carefully review each Green Lease Schedule clause
- Check how the schedule fits with the base lease
- Make sure everything is clear and consistent
This helps avoid confusion and ensures the lease supports energy efficiency goals.
More information
More details are in the Guidance Note and the Green Lease Schedule documents below.
If you have feedback or questions, email climateaction@finance.gov.au. Feedback will help improve future versions of the schedules.
