St.George branch in Sydney's Barangaroo earns 6-Star Green Star rating

St.George’s Barangaroo branch has been rated 6 Star Green Star – Interiors, the highest level for sustainable interior fit-outs, becoming the first bank branch and the first retail fit-out in Australia to get the rating.

Green Star, awarded by Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), is an internationally-recognised sustainability rating system for the design, construction and operation of buildings, fit-outs and communities. The St.George Barangaroo branch fit-out was assessed across nine categories and scored on use of building materials that are environment friendly, reduced internal air pollutants and lower water and energy consumption.

“This outstanding achievement is not just about minimising the bank’s environmental footprint – although this is important," said GBCA’s chief executive Romilly Madew.

"International research has found bank branches designed with sustainability in mind are also better places for customers and staff – and can cut costs, boost productivity, attract and retain employees, and provide a positive brand contact for customers. We applaud St.George’s achievement, which sends a signal to the financial services sector that sustainability is a strategic business decision.” 

St.George retail general manager Ross Miller said the certification was proof of St.George’s focus on innovation to provide employees and customers with a great place to work and bank.

This latest rating also builds on Westpac Group’s list of credentials in this area. Recognised as the world’s most sustainable bank, according to the 2015 Dow Jones Sustainability Index, the group’s head office at 275 Kent Street in Sydney was also recently awarded a 6 Star Green Star rating, along with the 150 Collins Street, Melbourne site and new corporate office, Tower 2 at Barangaroo.