• Federal election energy policies announced
• New insulation initiative in Victoria

Federal Labor and Coalition Energy Policies Announced.

Both major parties have firmed up on their energy policies as part of their campaigning for the upcoming Federal election.

Reinforcing its strong support for renewable energy, the incumbent Labor Government announced a new national battery initiative, with a substantial $2.3 billion commitment to subsidise the cost of home batteries by 30%. Labour indicated this will be in addition to existing State Government initiatives – such as NSW, which already provides up to $2.5k for home and small business batteries with less than 28kWh storage capacity. This is on top of the previously announced extension to its bill relief program, which will provide households and small businesses with an additional $150 in savings over the second half of 2025.

In stark contrast, the Coalition has thrown its support behind boosting gas supplies to the domestic market to bring down energy costs and support energy production during the extensive lead times required for building their proposed new nuclear power stations. Initial modelling suggests the Coalition’s plan will reduce household electricity bills by approximately 3% – saving an estimated $50-$70 per year for the average household, with further savings of 7-15% on gas bills.

At a time when a number of existing base load coal plants are fast approaching their planned end of life closure dates, whichever party wins will shape Australia’s energy industries in markedly different ways.

Read more about the Cheaper Home Battery Program..

New Insulation Initiative in Victoria.

The Allan Labor Government is introducing discounts on ceiling insulation through the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, starting early 2026. This initiative aims to halve typical insulation installation costs from $3,000 to $1,500, helping Victorian families save an estimated $400 annually on their energy bills. An estimated 60% of Victorian homes are poorly-insulated, including approximately 200,000 homes without any insulation. Outlined in the release, the Allan Government aims to improve home energy efficiency, reduce emissions, support local manufacturing, and drive down power bills.

At Ecovantage, we consistently analyse market activity, policy changes, consultation releases, and creation rates in conjunction with wider landscape activity. This allows us to keep our clients at the forefront of all relevant changes, and to leverage the advantage that this presents. Thank you for your continued support, and please reach out if you have any general or project-specific questions.

Nick Keynes | Account Manager, Energy & Carbon Services
Nick specialises in Commercial Lighting (NSW, VIC & SA), and energy certificates including ESCs, LGCs & ACCUs.