A number of important changes have been made to the Energy Efficient Homes Package commencing 1 September 2009. New Guidelines are now available, however the key elements for installers are outlined below.

Low Emission Assistance Plan for Renters – ceased on 31 August 2009

Due to low levels of uptake for insulation assistance under the Low Emission Assistance Plan for Renters, the Plan has ceased. Instead, landlords and tenants may be eligible for insulation assistance under the new Home Insulation Program, with up to $1,600 assistance per household available. Any rental household that had insulation installed between 3 February 2009 and 31 August 2009 (inclusive) where the cost was above $1,000 will not be eligible to claim the gap under the new Program.

Home Insulation Program to replace previous HIP and LEAPR schemes

The Homeowner Insulation Program and the Low Emission Assistance Plan for Renters have been replaced by the Home Insulation Program. The Program provides up to $1,600 assistance to households. The eligibility criteria for the new Program are similar, but not identical, to those under the former Homeowner Insulation Program. A key change is that landlords and tenants may be eligible for up to $1,600 assistance under the Program.
Physical site inspection and written quote

Every householder who wants to take advantage of the Home Insulation Program is required to obtain a written quote from an installer based on a physical site inspection except in remote areas where special provisions apply, as outlined in the Guidelines. The new Guidelines also contain a Pricing Table to help householders understand the likely costs of ceiling insulation.
Training qualifications and Insurance Certificates of Currency to be presented

Installers are required to provide evidence of qualifications and/or competencies at the time of registration. Currently registered installers may be required to provide evidence of qualifications and/or competencies as part of the compliance strategy. New installers are required to provide this information before they can be included on the Installer Provider Register.
Further information about the program, including new frequently asked questions is available on the internet site:

www.environment.gov.au/energyefficiency/insulation