2024 Capability Portfolio Digital | Page 167

Clean Energy Capability Portfolio | Empowering Consumers

Energy Deprivation

Among Low-Income
Families

Rising energy costs , limited access to low-energy appliances and poor-quality housing , have forced many low-income families to sacrifice daily essentials and social connections in order to keep a roof over their heads . In order to overcome this problem , strong political leadership and support of community programs is required .

Competitive Advantage

• Experience in the provision of detailed , firsthand accounts regarding the impacts of energy deprivation – from skipping meals and medication , to widespread loneliness and social isolation
• Capabilities in reviewing housing and social policies
• Australian and international expertise on outcomes of deprivation

Impact

• Policy change to improve the quality of housing
• More equitable social and financial support for lowincome families

Successful Applications

• Demonstrated carbon reductions by retrofit implementations

Our Collaborators

• NSW Department of Planning , Housing and Infrastructure
• The Salvation Army
• Public Interest Advocacy Centre
• Australian Council of Social Service ( ACOS )

More Information

Dr Edgar Liu
School of Built Environment
UNSW City Futures Research Centre
E : edgar . liu @ unsw . edu . au
• Submissions to , and an invitation to present at , Senate Inquiry public hearings
• Discussions on policy development with industry bodies and government agencies

Capabilities and Facilities

• Extensive knowledge of housing and social policies in Australia
• Collaborative relationships with social and housing development industries
• Strong ties with international experts on housing policy development

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