Merri-bek welcomes the Victorian Parliamentary inquiry report into renewable and affordable energy for apartments, released in August.
The report outlines practical reforms to help more Victorians living in apartments and townhouses access renewable energy, reduce energy costs and benefit from the state’s transition away from fossil gas.
Sixteen of the report’s 25 recommendations reflect proposals included in Merri-bek’s submission. We are particularly pleased to see recommendations that respond to our three priority areas:
- Making it easier for owners corporations to approve sustainability upgrades by reducing the approval threshold under the Owners Corporation Act 2006 (Vic) to 50%.
- Creating an apartment electrification strategy with gas substitution pathways tailored to different building types, ages and owners corporation tiers.
- Providing means-tested financial support, developed with the apartment sector and local governments, to help electrify apartment buildings of all ages and types.
Merri-bek will continue working with local government and strata sector partners to advocate for changes that make apartment living more comfortable, affordable and climate-ready.
Read the full inquiry report on the Victorian Parliament website.
Read Merri-bek’s submission to the Inquiry on the Merri-bek City Council website.
