Around 100 representatives from government, the energy industry, academia and consumer groups gathered to discuss energy affordability and how to improve energy performance in homes at the Housing Summit hosted by Energy Consumers Australia in September.

There was broad agreement by consumer and community groups that policies and programs are urgently needed to ensure that all Australians are able to afford the energy required to have a healthy and comfortable home.

Speakers highlighted the need to ensure low-income households and people living in rental properties are not disadvantaged by poorly performing housing stock. The Summit’s Communique called for:

• Improved energy performance standards for new homes and major renovations
• Improved energy performance standards for existing homes, including fixed appliances

The Communique calls on governments and industry to work together in developing a comprehensive, national strategy to improve the energy performance of all Australian homes.

More information here