The Allan government is facing backlash from natural gas supporters and plumbers, who are planning to reach up to 50,000 voters weekly in response to the government’s proposal to phase out natural gas connections in homes across Victoria.
The campaign, which started on Monday under the slogan “Your home, your choice,” aims to counter what supporters claim is misinformation being spread by the government. Earlier this month, the government introduced legislation authorizing a ban on new gas connections and the installation or replacement of gas appliances. However, government officials stated that any such measures would require consultations with the industry through a regulatory impact statement.
Steve Davies, CEO of the Australian Pipelines and Gas Association, criticized the government’s approach, arguing that delaying the closure of coal-fired power plants to implement the gas ban contradicts the interests of the majority of Victoria’s residents. “The deeply flawed facts cited by the Victorian government to rationalize moving away from natural gas are so unbelievable that experts now need to correct the record with accurate information,” he stated.
Thousands of plumbers are expected to participate in the campaign. Peter Daly, CEO of Master Plumbers, emphasized that homeowners—particularly the 80% connected to the gas network—deserve the right to make informed decisions about transitioning to all-electric homes. He noted that the government’s claims regarding energy savings do not take into account the unique circumstances of individual households.
Premier Jacinta Allan has faced recent accusations of misleading the public after suggesting that Victorian residents could continue using natural gas while simultaneously introducing legislation to restrict it. Despite the proposed changes, the government insists that gas stoves will not be banned.
Opposition spokesperson David Davis urged the government to reconsider its stance, claiming that families should have the ability to choose household appliances. He called for the acceleration of onshore exploration for conventional natural gas in Victoria.
In response to the criticism, a government spokesperson stated that the state’s supply of natural gas is dwindling and that the proposed reforms aim to preserve it. “While the gas lobby focuses on increasing their profits, we are focused on your electricity bill,” the spokesperson added.
