Australia’s retail property sector continues to raise the bar on sustainability, with the latest NABERS Sustainable Portfolios Index (SPI) 2025 showcasing record-high participation and performance from shopping centre portfolios.
This year’s Index features 16 shopping centre portfolios, with a record-breaking 13 portfolios achieving 100% energy disclosure – nearly double last year’s total. The results highlight the sector’s growing commitment to transparency, performance, and climate resilience.
“The NABERS SPI 2025 shows how leaders in Australia’s property sector are transforming targets into tangible results,” says Magali Wardle, NABERS Head of Market Development.
Top performers in 2025
The leading performers in the Shopping Centre Energy Index for 2025 include:
- QIC Real Estate Active Retail Property Fund – 5.9 stars
- Vision Super Local Government Property Fund, Cbus Property, and Lendlease – Australian Prime Property Fund Retail – 5.0 star
The Shopping Centre Water Index also revealed strong results, with top rankings awarded to:
- LaSalle Investment Management BVK Global – 4.5 stars
- Vision Super Local Government Property Fund – 4.3 stars
Three shopping centre portfolios reached 100% carbon neutral coverage, earning them the credential of Carbon Neutral Portfolio for Shopping Centres. They are:
- Cbus Property
- QIC Active Retail Property Fund
- Local Government Property Fund (Vision Super).
QIC’s Active Retail Property Fund boasts the highest REI percentage overall, with 97.46% renewable energy usage – topping both the Shopping Centre category and the full index.
“The SPI isn’t just about who ranks highest. It gives asset owners a clear picture of where they stand, and where we can go together. Every portfolio that discloses performance is contributing to Australia’s climate goals and helping to deliver more efficient buildings,” said Wardle.
An evolving benchmark for a climate-ready future
The SPI 2025 also features more user-friendly tools to help portfolio owners and managers make informed decisions about their sustainability journey. The introduction of new data points such as the Electrification Percentage will provide a clearer picture of how portfolios are progressing towards electrification, contributing to net-zero goals.
While the SPI is about recognising top performers, it also provides an opportunity for asset owners to assess their standing and set clear goals for the future. Every portfolio that participates is contributing to a more sustainable and energy-efficient built environment.
The National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) is an independent rating system that measures the environmental impact of buildings. Since 1999, NABERS has driven improvements in the sustainability of Australian buildings by providing transparent, reliable, and data-driven insights. The system focuses on key environmental areas such as energy, water, waste, and indoor environmental quality, helping property owners and managers achieve higher efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint.
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