Joint media release: Energy upgrades to ease cost of living for Tasmania’s social housing residents

Julie Collins MP, Minister for Housing and Minister for Homelessness

Nicholas Street, Tasmanian Minister for Housing and Construction

Jenny McAllister, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy

_______________________________________________________________________________________________

The Albanese and Rockliff Governments are delivering long-term cost of living savings to more than 1,600 Tasmanian households, with a $16.6 million partnership for energy upgrades in social housing properties.

Social housing properties are some of the most energy inefficient in Australia, with most built more than 20 years ago before minimum build standards.

That’s why the Commonwealth and Tasmanian governments are partnering to extend the state-run program to reduce energy bills and help keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

The Homes Tasmania Energy Efficiency Program will deliver energy upgrades including heat pump hot water systems, insulation, draught proofing, LED lights, and window glazing.

Around 11 per cent of the state’s social housing properties will receive some kind of upgrade under the program.

This investment is part of the Albanese Labor Government’s $1.7 billion Energy Savings Package, $300 million of which is helping to fund upgrades for up to 60,000 social housing properties across the country.

Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen said the government was committed to helping households make real cost of living savings through their energy bills.

“We’re delighted to invest in household energy upgrades that will help make power bills more affordable for more than 1,600 social housing properties across Tasmania.

“Today’s announcement comes on top of our Energy Bill Relief Fund, which is supporting around 143,000 Tasmanian residents with average savings of $500 off their bills.”

Minister for Housing Julie Collins said the partnership build on the government’s cost of living relief.

“Our government is working to ensure more Tasmanians have a safe and affordable place to call home,” Minister Collins said.

“This new partnership will mean more homes in Tasmania are energy efficient, saving residents energy and money.

Tasmania’s Minister for Housing and Construction, Nic Street, welcomed the announcement saying it would be a boost for Tasmanian households.

“This initiative will make life more comfortable and deliver energy savings for more than 1,600 Tasmanian households,” Minister Street said.

“These energy efficiency initiatives will not only extend the life of public housing assets but also enhance the living conditions, energy efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for residents.

“I welcome the Australian Government’s $8.3 million partnership, matching the Rockliff Liberal Government’s investment of $8.3 million which will provide better outcomes for Tasmanians.”

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy Jenny McAllister said the government wanted to help all Australians lower power bills and reduce emissions, no matter where they lived or how much they earned.

“Energy efficiency upgrades will help households save money, save energy, and make homes more comfortable each and every year,” Assistant Minister McAllister said.

“Energy upgrades and electrification can especially help tenants save substantially on energy bills and keep homes warm throughout chilly Tasmanian winters.”