The One Million Homes Alliance today welcomed the Brumby government’s commitment to increase the energy efficiency of Victorian homes to an average of 5 stars by 2020 and to a comprehensive retrofit program that includes support for low income households and public housing tenants.
Kelly O’Shanassy, CEO Environment Victoria said “The best way to achieve a five star standard in low-income homes is through a One Million Homes energy and water efficiency retrofitting program.”
The One Million Homes program has the backing of the leading social and environment groups across Victoria.
“The commitment to a comprehensive retrofit program must now be backed up by financial investment to ensure low income households have no out of pocket expenses,” said Ms O’Shanassy.
Damian Sullivan, Manager – Equity and Climate Change, Brotherhood of St Laurence said “Helping low income households improve the energy efficiency of their homes is an important step, as it reduces the impact of rising energy prices on their cost of living whilst also assisting people to live more sustainably.”
Ian Porter, CEO Alternative Technology Association said “A 5 star standard is a big step up from the 1-2 star standard of most houses today and should ensure measures such as low-flow shower roses, insulation, sealing of gaps and cracks, efficient hot water and compact fluorescent globes are in place in all homes. These changes don’t have to be expensive as many Victorians have shown over recent years.”
Kate Colvin, Policy and Public Affairs Manager Victorian Council of Social Service said “Minimum rental standards and additional investment in retrofitting public housing will be needed to achieve the Victorian Government’s 5-star goal for low income renters.”
For more information about the One Million Homes program head here
To see the full list of One Million Homes Alliance members hop here
For comment contact
Kelly O’Shanassy, Environment Victoria 0421 054 402
Ian Porter, Alternative Technology Association, 0412 254 200
Kate Colvin, Policy and Public Affairs Manager, VCOSS 0418 103 292
Brotherhood of St Laurence call Johanna de Wever on 0424 751 920.
Media assistance
Louise Matthiesson 0417 017 844