Gas company wages scare campaign to block Victoria's new-home gas ban
Gas pipeline operator AGIG is lobbying Victoria to overturn a ban on gas in new homes.
Australia's Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG) runs major gas networks across Victoria. AGIG is pressuring the state government to reverse a ban on gas in new homes before the election.
A leaked lobbying document from AGIG's consultant warns that annual household gas bills could rise $100 unless the ban is reversed. The document provides no evidence for the claim.
From 1 January, all new homes and buildings must run on electricity instead of gas. The government says this saves households $880 a year, or $1,820 with solar panels.
AGIG's business shrinks when new construction no longer connects to its pipelines. Energy experts say the campaign is a fear tactic and reject the price warnings.
- $100
- Claimed annual bill rise
- $880 per year
- Government savings claim
- 20 to 40 percent
- Network cost increase modelled
- 1 January
- Ban effective date
Why it mattersThe lobbying reveals how industry groups fight policy changes that threaten their profits, and whether scare tactics can overturn environmental regulation before an election.
AustraliaVictorian voters will see this clash play out before the state election; household energy costs and home building standards could shift if the ban is reversed.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 15 h ago
