Rising gas prices, widespread coverage about the benefits of ‘electrifying everything’, and an increased desire to drive down emissions, have sparked a wave of interest in household electrification across Australia. A range of government programs supporting the switch from gas to highly efficient electric alternatives have also emerged. Together, these factors have created a narrative around the critical role electrification has to play in reducing emissions, improving health and cutting living costs in the long term.

Australia has access to the technology and skill base required for electrification. A focused skills and training program would help expand the number of people working in the sector, and ensure a rapid transition from gas to electric. Alongside workforce expansion, effective communication about the benefits of the transition would help inform the public and facilitate effective government policy.

This report brings together existing research and literature to provide a snapshot of residential electrification across Australia now and into the future. It presents the benefits of residential electrification, including: lowering bills, creating jobs, reducing associated health risks and achieving social equity. The suite of government policies and programs aiming to help households electrify is also summarised. The aim here is to showcase the actions governments are currently taking, and to determine what more can be done to incentivise electrification for Australian households.

Report structure:

• Chapter 1 presents an overview of residential gas usage and the potential for electrification in Australia.
• Chapter 2 highlights the potential financial and health co-benefits of residential electrification, along with achieving equity for vulnerable groups within the community.
• Chapter 3 discusses job opportunities through electrification of the residential sector.
• Chapter 4 summarises current policies in place across state and federal levels. The results highlight where action is being taken and where more focus is required.