Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap

Victoria's Gas Substitution Roadmap (GSR) is a comprehensive initiative designed to steer the state towards a more sustainable and cost-effective energy future. This strategic plan aims to achieve net-zero emissions while simultaneously providing Victorians with greater energy choices and reduced utility bills. The GSR is not operating in isolation; it's a collaborative effort between the Department of Transport and Planning and the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action.

As part of a broader clean energy transition strategy, the roadmap outlines significant changes to planning and building regulations. These changes include the implementation of higher standards for both new residential and commercial constructions by 2025, marking a significant step in Victoria's journey towards a more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient built environment.

Phasing out new residential gas connections

Victoria has launched a significant initiative to phase out gas connections in new residential builds, marking a pivotal shift in the state's energy strategy. Starting January 1, 2024, new gas connections are being discontinued for new dwellings, apartment buildings, and residential subdivisions that require planning permits.

The scale and importance of this change become apparent when considering that Victoria constructs over 50,000 new homes annually, with approximately 40,000 of these traditionally connecting to the gas network. By prohibiting new gas connections, Victoria aims to curb the growth of fossil gas use and associated emissions, while also avoiding investment in expensive gas infrastructure that may soon become obsolete. This move aligns with the Victorian Government's ambitious emissions reduction targets, including a 75-80% reduction by 2035. The state's progress is evident, with renewable sources already accounting for 38% of Victoria's electricity generation in 2022-23. Moreover, the shift to all-electric homes is expected to benefit residents through lower running costs and improved environmental friendliness.

Who will this affect?

The gas connection prohibition introduced in Victoria on January 1, 2024, primarily affects new residential developments that require planning permits. This includes the construction of new dwellings, new apartment developments, and new residential subdivisions where the planning permit application is lodged on or after the implementation date. The prohibition extends to lots within new residential subdivisions, where affected lots will have a mandatory condition prohibiting gas connections for new dwellings, regardless of whether the dwelling itself requires a planning permit.

However, the prohibition does not apply to several scenarios. These include planning permit applications lodged before January 1, 2024, amendments to permits where the original application predates this cutoff, and developments that don't require planning permits. Additionally, extensions or alterations to existing dwellings or apartments, conversions of existing outbuildings into dwellings, and the construction of second dwellings partially within an existing dwelling's floor area are exempt. Importantly, existing dwellings and lots with previously approved dwelling permits are not affected by this new regulation. The policy also makes special provisions for staged subdivisions and small second dwellings, ensuring a comprehensive but nuanced approach to the transition away from gas connections in new residential builds.

It's worth noting that this transition to induction cooking in new builds does not affect the use of LPG (bottled gas) for outdoor barbecues or in regional homes for hot water and cooking, ensuring flexibility for various lifestyle needs while still promoting overall energy efficiency and safety in primary residential kitchens.

Benefits of induction cooktops

Switching from gas to induction cooking offers numerous advantages for both households and the environment. Induction cooktops are renowned for their efficiency, convenience, and safety features, making them an increasingly popular choice for modern kitchens. Unlike traditional gas stoves, induction cooking provides precise temperature control and rapid heating, allowing for more accurate and responsive cooking experiences. Moreover, recent studies have highlighted potential health risks associated with gas cooking, making induction a healthier alternative for indoor air quality. The smooth, flat surface of induction cooktops is also easier to clean and maintain.

Cook and Bathe offer a wide array of induction cooktops to suit various kitchen needs and preferences. Their selection includes renowned brands such as Euro Appliances, Kleenmaid, Westinghouse, Smeg and more, each known for their quality and innovative features. Customers can choose from different sizes, ranging from compact 30cm models perfect for small apartments to expansive 90cm cooktops ideal for large families or enthusiastic home chefs. Many of these induction cooktops come with advanced features like flexible cooking zones, touch controls, and safety functions such as child locks and residual heat indicators

Cook and Bathe is committed to supporting customers through Victoria's transition away from gas connections in new builds, while also continuing to serve those with existing gas installations. We understand that many households still rely on gas connections, and we remain dedicated to serving these customers as well. Our showrooms continue to stock a diverse selection of high-quality gas cooktops from leading brands, ensuring that all our customers, regardless of their energy setup, can find the perfect cooking solution.

Whether you're looking to make the switch to induction or need to replace your current gas cooktop, Cook and Bathe's experienced staff are here to guide you through the options and help you make the best choice for your home and cooking style.

For more information visit the Vic Gov website here.