One thousand Victorian homes have received free energy upgrades thanks to the Healthy Homes program.
Targeting homes in Melbourne’s western suburbs and the Goulburn Valley, the State Government initiative set out to both improve indoor temperatures and reduce energy bills during winter for Victorians who live with complex healthcare needs and have low incomes.
Victoria has a temperate climate, but the combination of cold winters and thermally inefficient housing stock creates a serious population health risk.
Over a 4 year period, the Healthy Homes program rolled out upgrades like draught proofing, ceiling or sub-floor insulation, high-efficiency heating and cooling appliances and window coverings.
More than simply a delivery program, it was designed as a randomised controlled trial to measure and monetise health benefits of improved warmth and energy efficiency.
