Insulation installer register now open

Environment Minister Peter Garrett has invited eligible businesses from around the country to register for the Australian government’s ceiling insulation program Installer Provider Register.

Garrett said the program would boost jobs with millions of homes needing ceiling insulation.

The Minister encouraged eligible businesses to register online, which would allow them to install ceiling insulation under the government’s Energy Efficient Homes Package when the program kicks off on 1 July 2009.

From this date, eligible householders will need to select an installer from the government’s Installer Provider Register to install their insulation as part of the package. They are free to use any installer listed on the register.

“The register will make it very easy for householders to identify who their local installers are in one quick web hit or phone call,” Garrett said.

Once the insulation is installed and the householder is satisfied, the Australian government will pay the installer directly on behalf of the householder.

“We have streamlined the registration process for installers by creating an easy-to-use online process. And to speed payments to installers once they have installed insulation, we will have an online payment system,” Garrett said.

“This is the largest home energy-efficiency measure ever undertaken in Australia. It is a fantastic opportunity for businesses across the nation to work on such an historic project. It will have a positive impact on people’s lives as well as the environment for many years to come.

“I encourage businesses to register now and not miss out on helping the government insulate up to 2.9 million homes. Even if businesses are already installing insulation they need to register now for the program."

It is anticipated that up to 2.9 million households across Australia will benefit from the assistance offered under the two ceiling insulation programs:

Homeowner Insulation Program — Provides assistance of up to $1600 to eligible owner-occupiers to install ceiling insulation in their principal place of residence with little or no existing ceiling insulation.

Low Emission Assistance Plan for Renters — Provides up to $1000 to eligible landlords and tenants to install insulation in private rental and other properties (including holiday homes) with little or no existing ceiling insulation.