November 4th, 2021Better homes for renters

Rental providers are now eligible for a rebate to upgrade inefficient heating and cooling systems to make homes more comfortable, drive down power bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Minister for Solar Homes Lily D’Ambrosio has announced $1000 rebates from Solar Victoria to install energy-efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners in rental properties. This rebate could help renters save up to $300 on their annual power bills.

More than 3300 Victorians have already taken advantage of the rebate – funded by the state government − since it opened to community housing organisations in May, and owner-occupiers in August 2021.
The eligibility expansion means even more low-income and vulnerable Victorian households can have their homes made warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
To be eligible for the rebate the rental property must be either earning $500 or less in weekly rent, occupied by renters holding a valid concession card or with a combined household income below $90,000, or unoccupied with a potential to earn $500 or less in weekly rent.
A further $200 rebate is available to cap old gas heaters, along with $500 to upgrade an electrical switchboard, if needed.
About 30 per cent of Victorians rent their homes and just under 80 per cent earn under $90,000. We also know around 45 per cent of this cohort struggle to pay their energy bills.
With new regulations requiring energy-efficient heating in all rental properties from March this year this rebate will support rental providers to install effective and efficient system for the home.
To ensure as many renters benefit from these upgrades as soon as possible, rental providers can apply for two rebates each financial year, with one rebate available per property.
For more information, including eligibility criteria and instructions on how to apply visit heatingupgrades.vic.gov.au.
Ms D’Ambrosio said everyone deserved a home where the could keep warm in winter or cool in summer without breaking the bank.
“We’ve heard the message from renters and rental providers loud and clear – that’s why we have expanded access to these rebates.
“This program will not only help those who would otherwise struggle to afford a new heating and cooling system, it will also help Victoria reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and make our homes more resilient to climate change.”