Lower- to middle-income households in regional and outer-suburban areas, particularly in coal and gas dependent regions.

Who They Are

The hardest group to engage in Australia’s climate transition are lower- to middle-income households in regional and outer-suburban areas, particularly in coal and gas-dependent regions such as the Hunter Valley (NSW), Central Queensland, and Gippsland (VIC). Many work in or rely on mining, transport, and manufacturing. Around 1.8 million Australians live in areas closely tied to fossil fuel industries (ABS, 2024).

Typically aged 35–65, these households face high energy bills, limited transport options, and low access to renewable alternatives. Their homes are often older and less energy efficient, and local job security is closely tied to fossil fuels.

Why They’re Not Contributing More

• Economic barriers: Upfront costs make solar, EVs, and home upgrades unaffordable.
• Limited infrastructure: Few public transport or EV charging options in regional areas.
• Cultural and political factors: Climate policies are often seen as city-focused or job-threatening.
• Information gaps: Low access to practical, trusted guidance on energy transitions.

These factors lead to low engagement, even among residents who recognise the need for climate action.

Proposals: 

1. Regional Home Retrofit Grants

What: Targeted rebates and low-interest loans for insulation, solar PV, and efficient heating/cooling.
Why: Cuts household emissions by up to 40% and reduces energy bills.
How: Led by DCCEEW with state and council partnerships; prioritise postcodes with high energy stress.
Outcome: 100,000 retrofitted homes in 3 years; ~1 Mt CO₂-e reduction annually.

2. Community EV and Charging Hubs

What: Launch shared EV charging hubs and a peer-to-peer “Airbnb for chargers” app, modelled on France’s Plug In platform, allowing residents to rent out private chargers to others in their community.
Why: Expands charging access without costly infrastructure, encourages EV uptake, and builds local participation.
How: Led by ARENA with local councils and motoring groups (e.g., NRMA). Pilot in 20 regional towns.
Outcome: Broader EV access, reduced petrol use, and stronger regional engagement within 3 years.

Learn More Resources

• https://aasb.gov.au/projects/australian-sustainability-reporting-standards/ 
• https://www.abs.gov.au/ 
• https://cer.gov.au/news-and-media/news/2025/february/2023-24-national-greenhouse-and-energy-reporting-data-now-available
• https://cer.gov.au/schemes/national-greenhouse-and-energy-reporting-scheme
• https://www.dcceew.gov.au/ 
• https://poll.lowyinstitute.org/ 
• https://plugin.fr 
• https://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/labor-unveils-plan-to-reduce-carbon-emissions-by-43-per-cent-by-2030/y8s4n3ulj

This Post was submitted by Australia Country Manager, Jessica Gregory.