Victorians can clean up with $100 rebate

Victorians will be able to clean up with a $100 discount on the cost of energy and water efficient washing machines and dishwashers through a $1 million Brumby Labor Government initiative announced by Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings.

Starting on World Environment Day (June 5) and running until June 28, Victorian retailers participating in the Victorian Government Appliance Incentive initiative will provide $100 cash back on the purchase of washing machines and dishwashers with a minimum 3.5 star rating.

“The Victorian Government Appliance Incentive is another example of the Brumby Government taking action on climate change by helping Victorians shop smarter, save on their energy bills and help create a sustainable future,” Mr Jennings said.

“Energy and water efficient appliances save money over the long term because they use less electricity and water. However, many have a higher up-front cost than their less efficient counterparts. By providing this $100 discount, we aim to reduce the sting of that up-front cost.”

Household appliances, including washing machines and dishwashers, account for around 13 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions in a typical Victorian household and 5 per cent of a household’s energy usage.

Over the lifetime of the total number of appliances purchased in this initiative, Sustainability Victoria estimated the Victorian Government Appliance Incentive would save Victorians approximately 1400 tonnes of greenhouse gas and 350 million litres of water.

Sustainability Victoria also estimated that by upgrading an inefficient washing machine to a 3.5 star energy rating or 4 star water rating could save up to 7000 black balloons over the life of the appliance.

Retailers participating in the Victorian Government Appliance Incentive include: Myer, Warehouse Sales, Harvey Norman, The Good Guys, Retravision, Clive Peeters, Camberwell Electrics, E & S Trading, Betta Electrical, David Jones, Clive Anthonys and Neco.

These ResourceSmart retailers can provide shoppers with additional information about purchasing energy and water efficient appliances.

For a full list of participating retailers see resourcesmart.vic.gov.au