As we step into 2026, it’s clear that Australia’s homes and buildings are entering a new phase. At the centre of this shift sits KNX: The world’s most widely adopted open protocol for building automation, supported by a global ecosystem and a growing Australian community of professionals.

Globally, the KNX Association, headquartered in Belgium, continues to expand its reach across residential, commercial and infrastructure projects, with strong growth in applications linked to energy management, EV charging, lighting, HVAC, shading and integrated security.

Here in Australia, that same momentum is now translating into practical, real-world projects, not just in premium homes, but in apartments, schools, aged care and mixed-use developments.

This isn’t about “smart gadgets”. It’s about smart systems.

Electrification needs integration, not silos

Australia is rapidly moving toward full electrification of buildings. Solar panels, battery storage, EV chargers, heat pumps, smart meters and demand-response programs are becoming standard parts of modern construction. But installing these technologies in isolation creates missed opportunities.

True performance only happens when systems talk to each other.

With KNX, solar generation can influence when EVs charge, when hot water systems run and when batteries store or export energy. Occupancy sensors can reduce heating and cooling loads. Lighting can follow daylight patterns and circadian best practices. Security systems can interact with lighting and shading for safer, more responsive buildings.

Because KNX is an open protocol, these systems don’t have to come from a single manufacturer. Designers and integrators can select best-in-class devices across hundreds of certified brands, confident they will interoperate on a common platform.

That flexibility is becoming essential as buildings grow more complex and expectations rise.

A major opportunity for electricians

For electricians, this transition represents one of the biggest business opportunities the industry has seen in decades.

Traditional electrical work is increasingly competitive and price-driven. Automation and system integration, on the other hand, reward skill, design thinking and long-term client relationships. Projects become larger, margins improve and service contracts become part of ongoing revenue.

Electricians who upskill into KNX specialists are no longer just installing circuits; they are commissioning complete building systems.

Across Australia, KNX National Group members offer high-quality certified training, from entry-level courses through to advanced programming and system design. Importantly, apprentices can now begin learning automation fundamentals early in their careers, positioning themselves for leadership roles in a market that is only going to grow.

This is not about replacing electrical skills; it’s about extending them into a future-proof profession.

Designers and engineers: Protect your design intent

For architects, interior designers and engineers, KNX offers something equally valuable: Control over outcomes.

Too often, design intent is compromised late in a project when proprietary automation systems require extra keypads, mismatched wall plates or remote controls that clutter carefully considered interiors, the dreaded “wall acne” effect.

With KNX, switching and control can be integrated directly into architectural switch ranges from major manufacturers, preserving clean wall aesthetics while still delivering advanced functionality. One button can control lighting scenes, blinds, HVAC and audio — without extra panels or ugly accessories.

Through the KNX Association of Australia’s Professional Services Membership category, consultants gain access to training, technical resources, industry support and early engagement with integrators and product suppliers. This enables better documentation, better coordination and better long-term building performance.

Put simply: KNX allows automation to serve architecture — not fight it.

ETS 6: The one tool that runs it all

At the heart of every KNX project is the Engineering Tool Software (EST) used to design, commission and maintain systems. With the latest upgrades in ETS 6, programming is faster, more intuitive and better aligned with modern project workflows, including remote diagnostics and device management.

ETS remains the only software tool needed to commission the world’s largest range of interoperable building automation devices.

In 2026, KNX Association Australia will be hosting roadshows across the country to showcase the latest developments in ETS 6, product innovation and system design best practices. These events will bring together electricians, integrators, consultants and educators to share knowledge and strengthen local capability.

A strong global partner, a growing local community

The KNX Association in Belgium continues to play a vital role in supporting markets like Australia through technical development, training frameworks and international certification programs. Their long-term commitment to open standards, education and industry collaboration ensures that local markets benefit from global innovation without being locked into proprietary ecosystems.

Here in Australia, that global foundation is now being matched by a strong and growing network of manufacturers, distributors, training partners and system integrators who are committed to lifting standards across the industry.

The start of something bigger

Smart buildings are no longer a niche. They are becoming the default expectation for energy efficiency, comfort and digital readiness.

KNX is uniquely positioned to support this shift because it was designed from day one as a shared language for building systems — not a product, not a brand, but an ecosystem.

As we begin 2026, the message is simple: If you work in electrical, building design or engineering, now is the time to engage with automation properly.

If you care about sustainability, user comfort and long-term value, open systems matter.
And if you want buildings that are ready for an all-electric future, interconnection is no longer optional.

KNX is ready. Australia is ready. And this next chapter is just getting started.