8 in 10 Australians support Victoria’s energy efficiency laws
New research has revealed strong approval for the state’s new minimum energy standards, and for potential nationwide expansion of the reform.
A survey conducted by renewable energy provider, Green.com.au, has incorporated responses from over 1,000 Australians to discover the extent of renters, rental providers and owner-occupiers who support the Victorian government’s new energy efficiency standards for rental properties.
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This is in the wake of the state government’s proposed changes to the net zero target minimum energy efficiency standards, which previously raised industry concerns due to the potential increased costs these revised standards could impose on landlords.
Through the survey, Green.com.au revealed that 81 per cent of respondents supported Victoria’s proposed energy efficiency standards, and 61 per cent indicated they would “support all state governments adopting the same standards”.
Renters showed the strongest support for the reform, with 67 per cent of respondents expressing support for nationwide adoption of the measures, and an additional 25 per cent preferring the reforms “remain within Victoria” only.
Owner-occupiers also registered their support, with 60 per cent expressing support for nationwide implementation of the standards, and 17 per cent stating they should remain in Victoria only.
For rental providers, 36 per cent responded in favour of the standards within Victoria, and 33 per cent supported the proposed standards on a nationwide scale.
In evaluating the responses across age groups, Green.com.au relayed that 93 per cent of respondents aged under 25 supported the measures, while 58 per cent further advocated for a nationwide rollout of the standards.
Notably, younger people also comprised the largest proportion of renters, with 46 per cent of respondents aged 25 to 34, and 55 per cent of those under 25, renting.
Green.com.au said the data indicates “the younger generation are possibly more environmentally conscious than the older demographic, and are also not impacted by the upfront costs associated with implementing the changes”.
Even so, older demographics did show strong support for the measures, with 78 per cent of respondents aged 55 to 64 agreeing with the standards.
This approval also extended to the 65-plus and 45 to 54 age brackets, with support in excess of 75 per cent across both age groups.
Green.com.au CEO and co-founder, David Green, said: “The overwhelming support for Victoria’s energy efficiency standards through our research highlights a clear mandate from Australians – especially among younger demographics – for stronger environmental policies.”
“Our research sends a strong message to rental providers: adapting to these reforms is not just about compliance, but about aligning with the values of the net generation of renters who prioritise sustainability,” the CEO concluded.