Gas lobby ‘scare campaign’ urges Victoria to scrap ban in new homes, leaked documents show
Summary
The Victorian gas industry is urging the state government to reverse a ban on gas in new homes, saying that household gas bills may rise by $100 a year if the ban stays. The government argues the ban will save households money and push buildings to use electricity instead of gas. A leaked document from a gas lobby group details strategies to change the ban before the upcoming election.Key Facts
- Starting January 1, new homes and commercial buildings in Victoria cannot connect to gas and must use electricity.
- The government expects the ban to save households about $880 a year, rising to $1,820 with solar panels.
- The Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) owns major gas networks in Victoria and opposes the ban.
- AGIG lobbyist Ken McAlpine wrote a document advising how to reverse the ban and manage public relations around it.
- The lobby document warns gas prices may rise 20% to 40% for remaining customers and claims voters dislike the ban, based on unnamed research.
- Independent experts and environmental groups say the price increase claims are part of a “scare campaign” and lack evidence.
- The independent Australian Energy Regulator sets gas prices, not AGIG.
- The Victorian government maintains its position, citing falling local gas supplies and rising prices as reasons for the transition to electricity.
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