About Blue Lotus Rating

The company was established in 2000 when Julie Forrester attended the very first FirstRate 4 course in Melbourne, run by (what was then known as) Energy Efficiency Victoria. Initially, there were no regulations for energy rating, and the only customers were ‘greenies’ and general enthusiasts of energy efficiency.

Gradually, regulations for dual-occupancies and then later, single dwellings were put in place, to ensure that Australia was reducing it’s greenhouse gas emissions. As these regulations increased, the software developed and Julie’s client base and experience grew. Large volume builders recognized that contracting an independent rater gave them greater credibility from their customers, rather than assessing their own designs. Julie started working with 2 of Victoria’s largest and most respected home builders, in both Research & Development and in providing final energy assessments.

Julie has participated in trials of 2nd generation tools Accurate and FirstRate 5 and has been an ABSA member (Association of Building Sustainability Assessors) since 2003. She has provided lectures to Architecture and Building Construction students.

We provide a sensible, no nonsense approach to giving you the information you need to meet the regulatory requirements… and keep your clients comfortable in their new homes.