Energy Efficient Homes Package

Minister for Ageing Justine Elliot has urged eligible nursing home and hostel operators to apply for solar hot water and insulation rebates under the Australian Government’s Energy Efficient Homes package.

Mrs Elliot issued the call to nursing homes and hostels.

Guidelines and how to apply for the rebates will be available from 26 February by calling 1800 808 571 or at the website: www.environment.gov.au/energyefficiency

“I urge nursing home operators who have older buildings to use this opportunity to improve their energy efficiency. Insulation will increase comfort for residents and save nursing home operators money, as well as helping tackle climate change,” Mrs Elliot said.

Under the Energy Efficient Homes package, the Solar Hot Water Rebate has been increased from $1,000 to $1,600, with the previous means test removed, and the rebate for landlords to insulate rental properties has been increased from $500 to $1,000.

Insulation is typically the most cost effective way to improve a home’s energy efficiency.

Although all newly-built homes must be insulated, many older homes – up to 40% of Australia’s housing stock – remain un-insulated.

Insulation rebates are available to eligible nursing homes and hostels through the rental rebate, and also to owner-occupier households. Solar hot water rebates are also available to eligible owner-occupied households and tenants.