The Strata Community Association (SCA) Australasia has achieved a major advocacy milestone following a high-level meeting between SCA President Joshua Baldwin and the Federal Minister for Climate Change and Energy, the Hon Chris Bowen MP.
In a productive and wide-ranging discussion held in Canberra during the first sitting week of Parliament, Minister Bowen confirmed strata communities inclusion in the Australian Government's Solar Battery Scheme and reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting strata in its broader energy efficiency agenda.
With more than five million Australians now living in strata-titled housing, this recognition highlights the government's understanding that community living will play a central role in addressing the national housing crisis and meeting sustainability targets.
"SCA has been advocating strongly for years to ensure that strata communities are not left behind in energy policy," said SCA Australasia President Joshua Baldwin.
"To have the Federal Minister confirm that strata is not only included in the Solar Battery Scheme but also positioned as a key focus of future energy efficiency reforms is a landmark outcome. This is a direct result of sustained advocacy, and a major win for the five million people living in apartments and townhouses across the country."
The meeting focused on the barriers faced by strata residents and managers in accessing energy efficiency upgrades and the need for dedicated policy mechanisms to support multi-unit buildings.
The inclusion of strata in the Solar Battery Scheme will allow buildings with shared infrastructure to access rebates and assistance.
"This clarification ensures that strata communities are part of the solution to Australia's energy transition," said Baldwin. "We are proud to see this government recognising the essential role strata plays in how Australians live, and committing to policies that include us, not exclude us."
SCA will continue to work closely with the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water to ensure practical implementation and ongoing inclusion of strata in future programs.
This outcome reflects a growing understanding within government that strata is a critical part of the housing landscape. SCA welcomes this recognition and remains committed to advocating for long-term, practical reforms that benefit communities across the country.
