Should we be planning for an all-electric future?
Victoria has just made a bold move, banning gas connections in new homes from 2024 and requiring electric replacements for hot water systems and heaters from 2027. It’s a significant shift in how homes are powered, and it’s raised some fair questions here in Queensland.
If you’re a homeowner, builder or landlord in Queensland, you might be wondering:
What’s happening here?
Are we next?
Is it time to rethink how we use gas in our homes?
Let’s break it down clearly.
What’s Happening in Victoria
Victoria’s changes are substantial and already in motion:
From 1 Jan 2024
- No new gas connections in homes that require a planning permit
- Applies to public housing, new subdivisions and metro or regional developments
From 1 Mar 2027
- If a gas hot water system fails, it must be replaced with an electric system (such as a heat pump)
- In rental properties, gas heaters must be replaced with efficient electric alternatives
- Gas cooktops can remain, but are under increasing scrutiny
Rental property regulations are also tightening:
- Insulation, draught sealing and energy-efficient appliances are now part of the compliance checklist
Incentives available:
- Up to $1,800 in rebates for switching to efficient electric appliances
- Additional rebates if the appliance is Australian made
This is not just a policy shift; it is a structural transition away from gas.
What’s Happening in Queensland
Queensland has not followed Victoria with a formal gas ban, but there is movement in that direction through policy and incentives.
Since May 2024, Queensland’s building code requires:
- A 7-star energy rating for new homes
- A Whole-of-Home energy budget that includes all appliances (heating, cooling, cooking, hot water etc)
You can still install gas appliances, but they now count against your energy efficiency score. That makes it harder for builders to hit their targets, and many are choosing electric systems instead.
Rebate programs in Queensland only apply to efficient electric systems, such as heat pumps and induction cooktops. There is no government support for new gas systems.
Why the Push for Electric?
Governments are pushing electrification for several reasons:
- Gas combustion emits carbon, contributing to household and state emissions
- Domestic gas supply is tightening, with most reserves being exported
- Electric alternatives are now more efficient and cheaper to run in the long term
- Homes are increasingly fitted with rooftop solar, batteries and efficient appliances that work better together when fully electric
It is both an environmental and economic shift.
What We Recommend at RJT Plumbing and Gas
We are not anti-gas, but we are pro-smart decisions. Here’s how we guide clients right now:
Stick with gas if:
- Your existing system is in good condition and relatively new
- You prefer gas cooking or already have the infrastructure in place
- Your current system is still cost-effective and reliable
Consider switching if:
- Your hot water system is older than 10 years
- You want to improve the energy rating of a rental or new build
- You plan to access rebates for electric upgrades
- You are building or renovating and want to optimise long-term energy efficiency
This Is a Transition, Not a Crisis
There’s no need to panic or rip out working gas systems. But if a system is near the end of its life, or if you’re already renovating, this is the right time to explore electric options.
Queensland is not banning gas at this stage, but the shift in standards, rebates and construction norms all point in one direction. Whether you’re proactive or just want to avoid future compliance headaches, the time to understand your options is now.
How RJT Can Help
We help homeowners and landlords:
- Compare running costs between gas and electric systems
- Access eligible rebates for efficient appliances
- Choose smart upgrades for rentals or new builds
- Repair or maintain existing gas systems until a switch makes sense
We offer honest, practical advice. No pressure, no upselling, just clarity.
Final Thoughts
Victoria’s gas ban is a sign of broader change, and while Queensland is not following suit immediately, the trajectory is clear. If you’re planning a renovation, a new build, or you manage rental properties, now is the time to start thinking about a future without gas.
RJT Plumbing and Gas will continue to guide clients through these changes with reliable service and practical expertise.
If you’re considering a system upgrade, contact RJT for friendly, local expertise.
