$1.2 million investment in energy-efficient upgrades
Believe Housing Australia is investing more than $1.2 million over three years to improve the energy efficiency of its properties in a partnership with the Australian Government’s Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI).
Through SHEPI, Believe Housing Australia has secured more than $600,000 in funding, which it will match, to complete more than 120 energy-efficient upgrades across its properties.
Upgrades include the installation of reverse-cycle air conditioners, bedroom fans, and heat pump hot water systems, all of which will contribute to lowering energy costs for tenants and enhancing their living conditions.
Believe Housing Australia tenant Jess received upgrades earlier this year, including the installation of a new hot water system, split-system air conditioning, and energy-efficient electric kitchen appliances.
Jess, who has been living in her home for three years, said the air conditioning upgrades had made living there more comfortable.
“The house gets really hot quite quickly,” Jess said.
“Last summer, before the upgrades, I had to leave a portable air conditioner in the living room and have it running 24/7, otherwise the room would just be way too hot. It worked great but used so much electricity and became expensive.
“With the new air conditioning, I am so much more comfortable, and I have people over a lot more now that it is cooler in the house.
“I can’t wait for summer now, it is going to be life changing.”
In addition to replacing the old gas appliances in Jess’ kitchen and replacing them with electric appliances through SHEPI funding, Believe Housing Australia also contributed towards a complete kitchen renovation, installing new cabinetry and a double sink in the new space.
“The old kitchen looked dated and had no storage,” Jess said.
“Now, I have cabinets and drawers to put kitchen items and food – it is more convenient to cook in.
“Believe Housing Australia also installed a brand-new electric oven and gave me some new pots and pans I could use for cooking when the upgrades were done.
“The upgrades make me feel like I want to cook more. They make the house feel more homely.”
Committed to upgrades
SHEPI is a $300 million, three-year (2025-2027) Australian Government program designed to fund energy-efficient upgrades in partnership with state and territory governments. The program benefits both the public and community housing sectors by reducing energy costs and increasing energy efficiency in homes.
South Australia was allocated $21.37 million, and community housing providers like Believe Housing Australia are required to match any funding they receive through SHEPI.
This initiative aligns with Believe Housing Australia’s broader Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) objectives and builds on previous programs that have already delivered positive outcomes for tenants, including the installation of smart solar systems to reduce energy bills.
Stacey Northover, Executive General Manager Housing Services at Believe Housing Australia, said the SHEPI funding enabled the housing provider to take a significant step towards achieving its energy efficiency goals and supporting more tenants like Jess.
“Many of the properties Believe Housing Australia manages lack essential energy-efficient appliances, such as modern thermal comfort systems and hot water solutions,” she said.
“The SHEPI funding allows us to address these deficiencies, reducing tenants’ energy bills and enhancing their overall quality of life.
“Improved energy efficiency not only brings environmental and cost-saving benefits but also supports the social well-being of tenants by providing healthier and more comfortable living environments.”
