We welcome today’s announcement of energy efficiency upgrades, including the provision of reverse cycle air conditioning, for social housing properties. We understand that public housing properties will be included in the upgrades.
Recent research from the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute has proven what we already knew – low income households spend proportionately more on electricity compared to higher income households.
Energy inequality can have serious, even fatal, health impacts for people who cannot effectively heat or cool their homes.
These upgrades will go a long way to improving the quality and safety of public housing.
Participating households will benefit from an average of $440 each year in reduced energy bills.
As summer’s become hotter, and longer, we urge the Government to prioritize public housing properties and tenants and to deliver these upgrades with urgency.
Executive Officer of the VPTA, Mark Feenane, said:
“For 20 years, the VPTA has been working to secure better outcomes for people who live in public housing.
“Today’s announcement shows that the needs of people who live in public housing are being heard.
“Energy efficiency upgrades – including the installation of air conditioning – are important for ensuring the health and safety of people living in public housing.”