Industry House could lose government tenant over energy rules
New energy rules may force the Department of Industry to exit Industry House when its lease expires in December 2026.
Industry House has been a Canberra landmark for two decades, but its future is uncertain. The Department of Industry, Science and Resources' lease expires in December 2026, and new energy rules may prevent renewal.
Built in 2006, Industry House had 25,000 square metres of floor space and held a five-star NABERS rating. A government policy that took effect in July 2025 requires new leases over more than four years to have a NABERS rating of at least 5.5 stars.
Industry House rates only 5.0, so it no longer meets the threshold. Real estate sources say the department is likely for the next major government office move away from Binara Street.
The building sold for $151.7 million in 2013, the largest office deal in Canberra that year. Federal agencies are trending toward shorter leases.
- 2006
- Built
- 25,000 square metres
- Floor space
- 5.0 (minimum 5.5 required)
- Current NABERS rating
- December 2026
- Lease expiry
Why it mattersThe shift reflects Australia's push for energy efficiency in government real estate. It signals broader changes coming to how and where federal agencies operate.
AustraliaA major tenant exit could reshape Canberra's office market and affect the building's value. Other government buildings may face similar pressures, triggering further office relocations.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 1 h ago
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