Raising the energy efficiency performance of Australian housing will deliver significant benefits to consumers and the wider economy and environment:

• Lower energy bills;
• Improved health and comfort for occupants;
• Lower cost, reliable power supply;
• Job creation and economic stimulus; and
• Low-cost emissions reductions.

However, there has been no substantive increase in energy performance standards for new homes since the 6-star standard was introduced in 2010, while the majority of existing homes built before 2003 average less than 2 stars in terms of energy performance.

Building new homes to higher standards is possible and cost-effective now. To date there has been limited consumer advocacy for policy change even though it is households who bear the financial and health burden of poor efficiency performance.

The Sustainable Housing Advocate will take a leading role in advocating for Climate Resilient Homes by conducting policy analysis, industry and partner engagement and public advocacy and communications.

This will require the role to:

• Strengthen relationships with consumer and environment advocacy organisations to build and lead a coalition to influence housing policy at national and state levels;
• Build relationships with industry groups and parts of the building industry supply chain, to understand industry concerns, barriers and potential to improving Australian homes;
• Engage with energy consumers and the general public to build awareness of the benefits of energy efficiency, and support for policy action; and
• Advocate to all levels of Australian governments and housing industry authorities to for policy change to raise energy and water efficiency of all homes, new and existing.

In collaboration with Renew staff, the role will be responsible for exploring future partnerships and funding opportunities to extend the Climate Resilient Homes campaign, including funding this role.

A full Position Description is attached below.