Australia’s ministers responsible for the construction sector will meet today to develop a plan to lift the energy efficiency of Aussie homes from 6 to 7 stars. The proposed changes to the National Construction Code are intended to lessen the environmental impact of the residential sector, which currently accounts for about a quarter of electricity use and 12% of greenhouse gas emissions. It’s hoped higher standards will also save residents money on energy bills and provide health, comfort and noise benefits. Energy efficiency advocates are praising the expected changes but caution that new rules must be implemented swiftly and properly enforced. The quality of new-build homes is a problem millions of Aussie tenants wished they had as rents rose at their fastest rate in 14 years over the last 12 months. In response, the Greens are pressuring PM Anthony Albanese to introduce a 2-year emergency rent freeze, a policy last implemented in 1941 in response to wartime inflation. So far, he’s not biting…