On sustainable design and its benefits
http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/sustainable_design.htm
http://www.gbca.org.au/resources/fact-sheets/the-benefits-of-building-green/29.html
http://www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au/www/html/1983-designing-your-home.asp
http://www.resourcesmart.vic.gov.au/for_businesses/design_and_construction_2090.html
http://www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au/www/html/1961-why-the-regulations.asp
On environmentally sustainable design for commercial buildings
http://www.resourcesmart.vic.gov.au/for_businesses/design_and_construction_3414.html
http://www.gbca.org.au/resources/fact-sheets/tips-on-greening-your-office/683.html
On gaining council approval for your building project or renovation
http://www.portphillip.vic.gov.au/planning_building.htm
General links
http://www.newtonhouse.info/materials.htm
http://www.buildinggreen.com/features/gp/green_products.html
http://www.buildinggreen.com/features/straw/straw.html
Smart home/building rebates, incentives and grants
The City of Port Phillip's approach to the built environment