The Nationals’ Melina Bath said changes to the Allan Labor Government’s flawed gas policy announced today is nothing more than a political stunt.
Victorians have been granted a slight reprieve – household gas heaters will not have to be switched to electricity until 2027, but old gas hot water systems must still be replaced with electric appliances from 2026.
The reprieve does not apply to rental properties. New builds remain banned from connecting to gas and commercial buildings must be all electric.
“Once again Victorians are being sold another stay of execution by an unpopular Premier,” said Ms Bath.
“The Nationals and Liberals have been telling Labor its war on gas is bad for Victorians, these changes are all about managing perception rather than listening to community.
“Labor has bungled the state’s energy transition and gas should remain an important part of the state’s energy mix.
“Labor’s flawed energy roadmap risks the security and supply of energy to households.
“The Premier needs to admit she is wrong on gas and work with the industry to ensure we have enough supply to help drive costs down over winter.
“Labor has developed cold feet with a state election on the horizon – these changes are a con.”
Ms Bath said in a cost of living crisis, it is unjust to force struggling households to switch to electricity while their bills keep rising.
“The Nationals back energy choice for Victorian households – not ideological government imposed mandates.
“Labor’s claim it is ‘slashing energy bills’ is disingenuous when Victorians know the reality is the opposite.”
Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage the state’s energy transition and Victorians are paying the price.
