Compare AccuRate, BERS Pro, HERO, and FirstRate5 disbursement fees and discover what these rates mean for builders, certifiers, and homeowners in Australia. Pricing is current as of January 2026 and may change in the future. Understanding these costs helps you make informed decisions and ensures compliance without surprises.
WHAT ARE COMPANY DISBURSEMENT FEES IN ENERGY RATING SOFTWARE?
Company disbursement fees are the mandatory charges set by energy rating software providers for each completed assessment. These fees cover licensing, software maintenance, and compliance reporting, ensuring every NatHERS-approved rating meets Australia’s regulatory standards.
For builders, certifiers, and homeowners, these fees are a core part of project compliance costs. Transparent billing allows stakeholders to see exactly what they are paying for, contributing to smooth energy assessments and reliable compliance documentation.
WHY DISBURSEMENT FEES DIFFER BETWEEN ACCURATE, BERS PRO 5, HERO AND FIRSTRATE5
Not all energy rating software is created equal—and neither are their fees. Differences arise from each provider’s business model, software development costs, support services, and feature set.
Some platforms prioritise cost-efficiency, others focus on advanced features, frequent compliance updates, or extensive technical support. These pricing differences reflect the trade-offs between affordability, functionality, and workflow efficiency.
HERO DISBURSEMENT FEE – $45 + GST
Among the major NatHERS tools, HERO commands a slightly higher fee at $45 + GST. This reflects its focus on advanced reporting, intuitive interface, and rapid compliance updates.
For projects that benefit from streamlined workflows and reduced manual administration, HERO’s fee can provide efficiencies that offset the premium cost. Many builders and certifiers choose HERO when accuracy, speed, and regulatory confidence are key priorities.
ACCURATE DISBURSEMENT FEE – $26.60 + GST
AccuRate offers the most cost-effective fee at $26.60 + GST. This makes it attractive for budget-conscious builders and certifiers needing reliable compliance without additional features.
Despite its lower price, Accurate is fully capable for standard assessments, making it ideal for high-volume projects where cost-efficiency is critical.
BERS PRO DISBURSEMENT FEE – $37 + GST
BERS Pro sits mid-range at $37 + GST. Its pricing balances affordability with enhanced functionality, including improved graphical outputs and responsive technical support.
Professionals who want a user-friendly interface and dependable compliance tools, while remaining mindful of budgets, will find BERS Pro a practical option.
FIRSTRATE5 DISBURSEMENT FEE – $43 + GST
FirstRate5 charges $43 + GST, just below HERO. Its fee reflects the software’s intuitive design, workflow compatibility, and strong regulatory support.
Projects with higher complexity or compliance requirements may find FirstRate5 a suitable choice, offering a balance of usability and responsiveness to regulation updates.
WHAT THESE DIFFERENT RATES MEAN FOR BUILDERS AND HOMEOWNERS
Disbursement fees directly affect the compliance costs passed to builders and homeowners. Lower fees, like Accurate, help keep project pricing competitive for multi-unit developments or renovations requiring multiple assessments.
Higher fees, such as those for HERO and FirstRate5, may increase certification costs but offer benefits including faster reporting, reduced risk of compliance errors, and enhanced support. Understanding these trade-offs ensures stakeholders can choose the software that best aligns with project size, complexity, and budget.
HOW CERTIFIED ENERGY MANAGES DISBURSEMENT COSTS
Certified Energy prioritises transparency and value. All disbursement fees are clearly itemised in quotes and invoices, so clients know exactly what they are paying for.
Currently, Certified Energy uses BERS Pro and HERO for all energy assessments. While multiple software options exist, HERO is often chosen by clients seeking enhanced efficiency, reliable reporting, and smoother workflow—making it a subtle, practical choice for projects where accuracy and efficiency matter most.
