The Gas Appliance Manufacturers Association of Australia (GAMAA) today welcomed the release of the Victorian Government’s new regulatory amendments to the minimum standards for rental properties and rooming houses.
GAMAA president Ross Jamieson said: “The decision not to pursue proposed regulatory bans on replacement of gas hot water and space heating in residential rental properties is a big win for common sense and most importantly tenant welfare.”
“The Government received 212 written submissions, including from many rental, energy and appliance providers, and it is heartening that this feedback and advice was taken up.”
“GAMAA and other groups all pointed to the very significant negative impact such policies would have had on rents and property availability.
“I’d like to thank the Premier and the Energy Minister for listening and making a positive decision based on robust and independent analysis, particularly at a time where cost-of-living pressures are making life challenging for everyone in the rental market.”
GAMAA members remained concerned that broader bans on gas appliances remain under consideration with a Regulatory Impact Statement examining options to impose full bans in the residential and commercial sector currently under development.
“We know from research undertaken by Frontier Economics estimated that forcing conversion of ducted gas heating and hot water in homes could see extra costs of up to $27,000 and possibly more for older houses,” Mr Jamieson said.
“What is concerning is that government websites continue to provide cost estimates for electrification which significantly understate the costs by excluding site specific conversion costs like switchboard and electrical upgrades and remodeling which could add between $15,000 to $20,000.”
“Blanket bans will simply make all Victorians worse off by removing choice and flexibility and impose higher costs right across the economy and have a devastating impact on jobs and businesses, many of which will see livelihoods destroyed without compensation.”
“Putting extra pressure on an electricity system that is already struggling would also seem to make no sense at all.
“It is vital that policy decisions are supported by accurate data and we continue to offer to work with the government to explore alternative approaches such as high efficiency gas which can save the household hundreds of dollars and cut gas use and emissions by 25%.”
More than 60 per cent of gas appliances sold in Australia are made in Australia, with GAMAA members employing around 4000 people, many in regional centres.
