The Master Builders Association (MBA) says Victoria has gone too far in demanding new homes be built to six-star energy efficiency standard.
The Age newspaper is reporting that the Victorian Government is considering scrapping the state’s mandatory six-star thermal efficiency rating in order to cut government red tape.
Brian Welch of the Master Builders Association says the previous five-star model is more appropriate.
“When you consider the Australian climate, the 5 star was a sensible balance in finding what is a reasonable level for consumer protection in this regard, of energy efficiency,” he told ABC local radio.
“The same as you have [for] bushfire standards, you look for a reasonable level, not the maximum level.”
Environment Victoria is surprised and disappointed by the move.
Spokesman Mark Wakeham says it is a short-sighted and irresponsible view.
“The Baillieu Government has an extremely poor environmental record but it seems to also be showing that they don’t really care about affordability of energy and water bills,” he said.
“Most Victorians don’t buy new houses. Most Victorians buy or rent an existing house and this will mean that Victorians in the future won’t have a safety net to ensure their houses are safe, comfortable and affordable.”
The Victorian Opposition Leader Daniel Andrews says scrapping the plan is a bad decision for jobs in the green construction industry.
He says the Government has a responsibility to lead by example.
“There’s clear evidence that if a government sets a standard, the standard will be met,” he said.
“This is a small impost upon purchase but one that reaps a huge dividend over time.”
