25 Jun 2025
Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) welcomes the leadership shown by City of Sydney council in its decision to ban gas appliances in new homes, a move that marks another step forward in Australia’s transition to a low-carbon, all-electric future.
Coming into effect from 1 January 2026, under the proposed reforms developers will be required to equip new homes with electric cooktops, ovens, and indoor heating and cooling systems while phasing out gas appliances to reduce the city’s greenhouse gas emissions.
“We commend City of Sydney for its leadership,” said Davina Rooney, CEO of the GBCA. “Electrification of our homes and buildings is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions, improve indoor air quality, and reduce energy bills.”
Ms Rooney said City of Sydney joins Victoria, ACT and five other NSW councils who have implemented planning controls that limit new gas connections and appliances in homes. “The path to a clean, low carbon future requires courage, collaboration, and innovation and these governments are showing how cities and states can drive meaningful change while delivering a range of positive outcomes.
We look forward to seeing all Australian jurisdictions making a commitment to electrifying homes and buildings,” Ms Rooney said. GBCA also welcomes the announcement from the Victorian Government on Tuesday that it will be implementing regulations to help lower household energy costs. From 1 March 2027, gas hot water systems must be replaced with efficient, electric systems when they reach end of life. Several new minimum standards will be in place for rental properties and public housing will also be in place from this date, ensuring that renters will have access to the comfort and cost saving benefits that all-electric homes deliver.
“All-electric homes are better for the health of people and the planet, and these reforms are important steps in Victoria’s electrification journey. We encourage the government to keep working towards an energy efficient, allelectric future for all homes and buildings across the state,” Ms Rooney said.