A 'green start' for vulnerable Australians

A new $130 million program to help improve the energy and water efficiency of low-income and disadvantaged Australian households has been announced by Environment Minister Peter Garrett. The Australian Government is now calling for bids to deliver the Green Start program.

The Green Start program, which is expected to roll out across Australia in 2010, is designed to help the most vulnerable households with practical and personal advice and support.

Minister Garrett said that, under tbe program, eligible householders would receive:

• A free home energy and water assessment, which will pinpoint new and extra opportunities to save energy and water.
• Free supply and installation of energy and water-efficiency products such as pipe insulation, efficient light bulbs, low-flow showerheads, draught proofing, seals for fridges, doors and windows, greywater hoses and compost bins.
• Personalised help to access local, state, territory and Australian Government energy and water-efficiency rebates and programs, such as the Home Insulation Program.
• Advocacy and support to help householders deal with landlords, real estate agencies and tradespeople to implement energy and water efficiency measures.

“We’ll be working closely with the social welfare sector, Centrelink and FAHCSIA and state and territory governments to ensure Green Start connects with and complements programs and activities already in place in various jurisdictions,” Minister Garrett said.

The details for bids to deliver the Green Start program are on AusTender. The tender period will close on 14 January 2010.