Strata managers slam $2.3bn solar energy snub

Strata managers are concerned and angry about a Labor Party decision to exclude apartment blocks from its proposed $2.3 billion plan to offer 30 per cent discounts on solar-powered electrical batteries.

Strata Community Association (SCA), the strata managers’ peak body, says it is deeply concerned that the federal government’s energy pledge will not include the five million Australians living in strata-titled properties.

Announced by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, the policy offers a 30 per cent discount on household batteries, with a stated goal of one million installations by 2030. However, strata communities – already facing significant barriers to renewable electrification – have so far been left out of the scheme entirely.

“We are looking forward to engaging with the leaders of both parties on this issue specifically, and on strata’s national policy priorities broadly, leading up to the federal election to continue making progress for all Australians living in strata,” SCA said in a press release.

Glaring omission

“This is a glaring omission,” said SCA National President, Josh Baldwin. “Strata residents make up a critical part of Australia’s urban fabric. Excluding them from key energy policies will worsen inequality and slow our national progress toward net zero.

“Strata communities are eager to be part of the energy transition, and any schemes and programs need to be designed to include what is a massive and growing segment of the population, Baldwin added.

SCA says it has long advocated for sustainability programs in strata complexes that mean people in apartments have the same access to renewable uptake as their freestanding counterparts.

It has called on the federal government to always plan around strata communities and develop inclusive, strata-aware policies that reflect the reality of modern Australian housing.

“It’s time for government policy to catch up with how Australians live – starting with equitable access to energy upgrades for strata communities,” a spokesperson said.