Everything You Need to Know About The Gas Ban in Victoria and How Your Home Might Be Affected

The upcoming gas ban for new-build homes in Victoria might be concerning some of you, so today I wanted to delve further into what the ban is, who it affects (and who it doesn’t), and more importantly, what it means for your existing home. 

There’s a lot of information out there, so in the interests of keeping it simple and avoiding confusion, we’ve teamed up with Multinet Gas Networks in Victoria to explain it all and answer some common questions that have arisen for homeowners in Vic.

Drop a comment at the end of the post if you have any outstanding questions you need cleared up and we can address them for you.

What Is the Gas Ban in Victoria In a Nutshell?

From 1 January 2024, any new homes, residential subdivisions, and apartment buildings that require a planning permit in order to be built cannot connect to the gas network. These new dwellings will have to be all-electric. That’s the ban put simply.

It’s important to note, though, that not all new homes, residential subdivisions, and apartment buildings require a planning permit in order to be built.

More on this below.

What If I Don’t Need a Planning Permit to Build?

If you don’t require a planning permit to build your new home, residential subdivision, or apartment building, you won’t be affected by the ban and can connect to the gas network if it’s available in your area.

It’s worth noting that only some new builds and renovations require a planning permit, and this can be different from council to council.

Depending on your project you may only need a building permit, and if that’s the case you can still connect to gas.

Are Existing Homes Connected to Gas Affected by the Ban?

Any existing home currently connected to the gas network will not be affected. You can still enjoy all of the benefits that gas brings to your home without concern. Your connection is safe and secure – and here to stay!

So I Can Still Convert My Existing Home from Electric to Gas?

Of course! In fact, we recently told you all about the benefits of converting to gas in your home. So if you’re considering making the switch, you’ll find a lot of valuable information in that post. 

And if you’d like to get ahead of the game and install a gas fireplace at yours before winter hits, this blog post talks you through everything you need to know. 

Do I Have to Convert to Gas Before 1 January 2024?

The only homes affected by the gas ban in Victoria are new homes, residential subdivisions, and apartment buildings that haven’t organised their planning permit before 1 January 2024 in order to be built.

If you’re in an existing home, you can convert to gas any time you like. An existing home is not affected by the ban.

Should I Switch? Is Natural Gas Bad for the Environment?

In Victoria today, natural gas has lower emissions than grid-based electricity. 

In fact, currently 67 percent of Victoria’s electricity is coal-generated, which produces around four to five times the carbon emissions than burning natural gas. 

Keep in mind though, Multinet is planning a low-carbon future, with a pathway to transition  their gas networks to renewable gas.

Ultimately the choice is yours; do what works best for you and your family.  

What About New Renovations and Extensions?

As long as the building works you’re about to undertake don’t require a planning permit, you won’t be affected by the gas ban and can continue to choose to connect to the gas network.

What If I’m Building After 1 January 2024?

You’d be wise to check with your builder or developer to see if a planning permit is required. If it is, you should get your planning permit lodged before the cut-off date of 1 January 2024.

If a planning permit is not required for the build, then Multinet can assist you in connecting to the gas network in your area.

I’m in the Middle of Building Now, What Happens There?

If you’re unsure of the stage you’re at in the building process, you should check with your builder or developer. If you already have a planning permit, then Multinet can connect you to gas, no problems. 

You’d want to have everything in place with your builder though, so ensure you jump on this and check in with them so you don’t get caught out.

How Do I Get a Planning Permit Before the 1 Jan 2024 Cut-Off?

You need to get in contact with your local council ASAP. They’re the ones who issue the planning permits.

You’d also be wise to speak to your builder or a building surveyor for advice around whether a planning permit is required based on the work you wish to carry out.

If you discover a planning permit is required, you need to lodge your application before 1 January 2024.  

I’m Just Doing a Small Kitchen Upgrade, Can I Connect Gas Appliances?

Absolutely! If you’re undertaking an upgrade that doesn’t require a planning permit from your local council, then no problems. Gas appliances are a great option for kitchens.

Will the Gas Ban in Victoria Extend to Other States in Australia?

At time of publication, governments in Western Australia, Queensland, New South Wales, South Australia, and the Northern Territory have indicated they are not considering banning gas to homes.

The new connections ban applies to Victorian homes only, and only if they’re new homes, residential subdivisions, and apartment buildings that require a planning permit.

I Have More Questions, Where Do I Go?

The team at Multinet Gas Networks are on-deck to answer any questions you may have around the gas ban in Victoria. Simply visit their website by clicking here.