New Programs Boost Energy-Efficient Home Building Skills in Victoria

The Victorian Government has unveiled a suite of new programs aimed at enhancing the skills of builders in constructing energy-efficient homes. These initiatives are designed to help workers stay current with the latest standards and techniques, fostering a more sustainable and energy-efficient housing market in Victoria.

A cornerstone of these efforts is the Renewable Homes Construction program, which offers free training to workers on how to build, design, and retrofit homes to improve their energy efficiency. This program also includes education on the National Construction Code 2022, which came into effect on May 1, 2024. The updated code sets higher standards for making homes more accessible, comfortable, and cost-effective to heat and cool.

To reach builders across Victoria, the program will be delivered through Home Efficiency Construction Roadshows. These roadshows, organised by Solar Victoria, Builders Victoria, and the Housing Industry Association, will take place at various locations, including Melbourne, Bendigo, Ballarat, Geelong, Shepparton, Echuca, Mildura, Albury, Bright, Mansfield, and the Gippsland region. The roadshows will cover a range of topics such as passive house principles, solar design, condensation prevention, air tightness, energy-efficient appliances, building techniques, and the use of better materials.

In addition to the roadshows, online training modules will be available through the Net Zero Homes Skills Training program. These modules will focus on residential energy efficiency, thermal performance, and net-zero energy design and construction, providing builders with the knowledge needed to meet the growing demand for sustainable homes.

Another key initiative is the Efficient Home Design and Construction Training program, which offers short training modules addressing the challenges and best practices in designing and building energy-efficient homes. This program is scheduled to be rolled out this year, offering valuable insights to builders looking to enhance their skills in this critical area.

For electricians and fourth-year apprentices, the Upskilling for Electricians program provides an opportunity to become accredited as designers and installers of solar photovoltaic and battery storage systems. This program is expected to train 400 electricians at no cost, saving them between $2000 and $4500 in course fees. Similarly, a free training program will be available for plumbers and their apprentices, ensuring that all key trades involved in home construction are equipped with the necessary skills to support energy-efficient building practices.

The Victorian Government is also implementing various measures to incentivise the development of all-electric and net-zero projects, as well as to encourage retrofitting existing homes. These measures include policies put in place by the City of Melbourne, which aim to support the transition to more sustainable housing options.

These comprehensive training programs and incentives reflect the Victorian Government’s commitment to fostering a more sustainable future. By equipping builders, electricians, and plumbers with the skills and knowledge to construct energy-efficient homes, these initiatives will contribute to reducing the state’s carbon footprint and promoting a healthier environment for all Victorians.

For more information on these programs and how to participate, visit the relevant websites of Solar Victoria, Builders Victoria, and the Housing Industry Association. These resources provide detailed information on training schedules, locations, and registration processes, helping industry professionals take advantage of these valuable opportunities to enhance their skills and contribute to a more sustainable future.