Overview
Dishwashers were first subject to mandatory labelling in Victoria in 1989, with a national labelling scheme coming into effect in 1992.
Each dishwasher in a store in Australia and New Zealand must display an Energy Rating Label. The label tells you how much energy the dishwasher uses per year and gives you a star rating that allows you to compare its efficiency to dishwashers of a similar capacity (number of place settings).
Buying a more energy efficient dishwasher can also reduce the amount of water you use. Modern energy efficient dishwashers use less water than what is required to fill the average domestic kitchen sink.
Is your product regulated?
Find out which GEMS determination or regulatory standard applies to your product.
All products covered by energy efficiency regulations must meet certain requirements before they can be supplied or sold in Australia or New Zealand.
Depending on the product, this may include Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS), energy rating label requirements or both. There are specific requirements relevant to Australia and New Zealand.
At a glance
|
MEPS |
Energy |
Australia |
New Zealand |
---|---|---|---|---|
Dishwashers |
No |
Yes |
Regulatory requirements
Dishwashers are subject to Energy Rating Label (ERL) requirements in Australia and New Zealand.
Dishwashers imported for sale or supply are required to meet ERL requirements. The full technical details for the ERL are specified in AS/NZS2007.1 and AS/NZS2007.2.
Standards are available for purchase from SAI Global or www.standards.co.nz.
Which dishwashers are covered?
Dishwashers that are ordinarily supplied and used for personal, domestic or household purposes are covered by the regulations. Please refer to the Determination for more information.
The Energy Rating Label on dishwashers
The Energy Rating Label can give you all the information you need to select the most efficient and lowest cost dishwasher (to run) that also meets your needs.
Key documents
Compare models
Search the Registration database
Use the registration database to view and compare all products that are registered under the GEMS Act.
Energy Rating Calculator
Compare the energy efficiency of fridges, televisions and computer monitors, clothes washers and dryers, dishwashers, and air conditioners.
Download the app
Use the Energy Rating Calculator app to compare the energy efficiency and running costs of similar products.

Useful Resources
Visit the Australian Government's energy.gov.au website for useful information like: