As the building industry moves toward net zero, professionals must balance multiple priorities—fire resilience, energy efficiency, and climate adaptation. But how do these goals align, and can they be achieved together in real-world projects? Designers are often tasked with meeting NatHERS targets that focus on operational energy and thermal performance. Yet, these requirements may sometimes conflict with efforts to enhance fire resilience or prepare for a changing climate.

This session, presented by the Australian Passivhaus Association, will feature insights from its members on how Passivhaus Standard can support fire resilience alongside sustainability goals.

Experts in Passivhaus Standard and bushfire-resilient architecture will explore how to deliver buildings that are not only energy-efficient but also safer and more sustainable. Passivhaus buildings, with their airtight construction, filtered ventilation, and high-performance windows, offer proven benefits during bushfire season—limiting smoke infiltration and maintaining comfortable indoor conditions even in extreme environments.