Affordable Housing Funders Peer Network: The role of philanthropy in zero emission upgrading for affordable housing

Rising energy costs are putting pressure on households which are already facing housing affordability stress. The poor energy efficiency of homes intensifies the issue. While all new homes must comply with the compulsory 7-star House Energy Rating, most existing homes provide poor thermal efficiency. Poor quality homes are not only costly to run but can create additional health risk for the occupants, as well as lead to higher greenhouse gas emissions. 

Energy efficiency and on-site renewables are cost effective means of addressing all three of these challenges while creating climate safe homes. These measures can reduce the cost of living for households, provide protection for residents from both extreme heat and cold, while reducing energy related greenhouse gas emissions.

The Federal Government’s latest budget included a number of policies aimed at helping energy upgrades for existing homes but how many are aimed at lower income households? As Australia moves to net zero, is there a premium being paid by this cohort?

Hear from experts in the field on the need to retrofit Australia’s existing housing stock. This session will help those working in philanthropy to see the issues around sustainable housing as one of health, housing and the environment. Draw the connection between the move to net zero and housing affordability for lower income households. 

At the end of this session, funders are expected to be able to:

1. Identify the impact of the move to net zero to lower income households and housing affordability for this group

2. Articulate the role of philanthropy in supporting the move towards sustainability while balancing housing affordability

Please note:

• the presentations in this session will be recorded. 

• presenters will share their thoughts and views in conversation, but this webinar will not offer any financial advice.

Key Speakers

Heidi Lee, Chief Executive Officer – Beyond Zero Emissions 

Heidi Lee is an expert in sustainable buildings and urban design and brings 20 years of experience in creating sustainable cities to her role, including working as an architect. As CEO of think tank Beyond Zero Emissions, Heidi Lee demonstrates how Australia can prosper in a zero-emissions economy. 

Beyond Zero Emissions produces independent research showing how Australian businesses and communities can thrive in a rapid transition to zero emissions. They showcase real-world projects as opportunities to prosper in a zero-emissions economy.

Damian Sullivan, Principal Climate Change and Energy – Brotherhood of St Laurence 

Damian Sullivan leads the BSL’s Energy, Equity and Climate Change program in the Social Policy and Research Centre. He has extensive experience working on energy efficiency, energy affordability and climate change and their relationship to low income and vulnerable households. 

BSL is a social justice organisation working alongside people experiencing disadvantage to address the fundamental causes of poverty in Australia.

They have a two-pronged approach;- First is of being informed directly by the people experiencing disadvantage and using evidence drawn from their research. Together with insights from their programs and services, they develop practical solutions that work. Second, they build partnerships with the broader community and organisations nationally as they believe that change only happens when people collaborate. 

This event is for Philanthropy Australia Impact, Engaged, Active and New Gen funder members only.

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