Tuesday, 21 June 2022

Rental standards

Dr RATNAM (Northern Metropolitan) (11:53): My question today is for the minister representing the minister for consumer affairs. Minister, Victorian renters are more likely to live in homes that are older, less energy efficient and harder to keep warm in the winter. Renters already spend more on energy than home owners, and with energy prices skyrocketing as temperatures plummet renters are having to choose between keeping their houses warm and facing exorbitant power bills or freezing through the winter months. The government have previously indicated that they are in the process of developing energy efficiency standards for ceiling insulation, draught proofing and hot-water systems in rental properties. Will the government commit to introducing these standards by the end of the year?

Mr LEANE (Eastern Metropolitan—Minister for Local Government, Minister for Suburban Development, Minister for Veterans) (11:54): Thanks, Dr Ratnam, for your question, which is directed to the minister for consumer affairs. I will make sure that you get a response in line with what is prescribed in the standing orders.

Dr RATNAM (Northern Metropolitan) (11:54): Thank you, Minister, for passing that on. By way of follow-up, many rental homes also rely on gas heating, which is expensive and a danger to health. Renters who want to swap to cheaper and cleaner electric heating have no options other than hoping their landlords agree to make the switch to electric. Minister, what support are you providing renters who want to replace their old gas heaters with cleaner and safer electric heaters?

Mr LEANE (Eastern Metropolitan—Minister for Local Government, Minister for Suburban Development, Minister for Veterans) (11:55): Thanks, Dr Ratnam, for your supplementary question, which I will ensure the minister for consumer affairs receives. Dr Ratnam will receive a response, as is prescribed in the standing orders.