Property Council National Policy Director Frankie Muskovic said the announcement is an important and pragmatic step towards an efficient, all-electric future that will support cheaper energy bills and cleaner, healthier homes for Victorians.
"We know that all-electric homes with efficient appliances combined with solar on the roof are much cheaper to run than homes with gas," Ms Muskovic said.
"The phased approach to replace hot water systems at the end of their life, coupled with all-electric new homes and commercial buildings from 2027, will reduce energy costs for Victorian households, particularly renters, at a time when cost of living pressures remain at historic highs.
"We welcome this move from the Victorian Government and its focus on reducing energy bills, and providing cleaner, healthier homes and buildings for Victorians," she said.
The Property Council and Green Building Council of Australia's joint platform Every Building Counts calls for new buildings to be all-electric. It also recommends the phasing out of fossil fuels in existing buildings and appliances, skilling up the workforce and incentives to support a fair transition for low-income and vulnerable households.
