MEDIA RELEASE
Wednesday, 25 November, 2009
For immediate release
New Green Start energy efficiency program for low income households
a welcome relief in a sizzling summer
The Brotherhood of St Laurence welcomes the Commonwealth’s new Green Start program
which will finance energy efficiency improvements in low income households.
Brotherhood Executive Director, Tony Nicholson said the announcement was good news.
“Energy efficiency provides an essential buffer for low income and disadvantaged
households to reduce the impact of rising energy prices,” he said.
“Energy prices are rising sharply in all States and will continue to rise with the impact
of the CPRS, drought and other pricing pressures.”
Research conducted by KPMG and the Brotherhood of St Laurence found that a $2000
package of energy efficiency measures including a home visit, insulation and sealing cracks,
could save a high energy using low income household between $313 and $470 per annum.
“Energy efficiency for low income households is a fantastic investment – it saves money and
provides them with a healthier and more comfortable home,” Mr Nicholson said.
“Energy efficiency enables householders to stay cooler in hot summers and warmer in cool
winters, without having to increase their energy usage,” he said.
John Thwaites, Chairperson of the Brotherhood of St Laurence Equity in Response to
Climate Change program and former Deputy Premier of Victoria said Green Start addressed
a real need.
“Energy efficiency is the best long term protection against rising energy prices. It’s a win for
consumers and the environment,” he said.
“Low income households need special assistance.
“They are less likely to take up traditional rebate programs because they cannot afford the
up-front capital costs,” Mr Thwaites said.
“Green Start brings together the key elements for successful home energy efficiency.”
Home visits, or audits, are essential because they enable households to make informed
decisions about the best possible energy savings methods for them. Home visits also
provide the first step in energy education and behaviour change programs.
“The focus on community sector participation is particularly welcome,’’ Mr Nicholson said.
“Community sector organisations have considerable skills in this area and work closely with
the target communities – Kildonan UnitingCare, Moreland Energy Foundation, Mission
Australia and the Brotherhood of St Laurence are just a few of the community sector
organisations who provide energy advice and services in Victoria.”
Media queries: Contact Grahame Whyte on 0410 221 574 to arrange an interview
with John Thwaites.
NEWS 
