An online information session will be held on Thursday, October 29, from 1pm to 2.30pm, to explain the On-Farm Energy and Electrification Demonstration Program. The program aims to speed up the use of energy technologies across Victoria's agriculture sector through industry-led demonstration projects. Up to $5 million in grant funding is available, with grants of $200,000 to $750,000 for successful applicants. Eligible projects may improve energy efficiency, cut fuel, gas or energy use, generate renewable energy, or provide on-farm energy storage. The session will cover eligibility, project expectations, eligible spending, co-funding and knowledge-sharing requirements.
A volunteer group in Fremantle is using a free noodle bar to show that households can cook without gas. Electrify Fremantle is running the Electric Noodle Bar during Fremantle Design Week, where chef Amanda Auwdina cooks vegetarian noodles on induction hotplates. Organiser Wilf Johnston says the group aims to reach people who have not yet considered switching. Research by consumer organisation Choice found induction cooktops are more efficient and cheaper to run than gas. Johnston expects gas networks to be called into question in coming years.
Apartment blocks face more hurdles than houses when switching from gas to electric appliances, experts say. Replacing shared gas systems requires the owners corporation to act, and getting every owner to agree can be difficult. One Brunswick block of 18 flats replaced its failing gas hot water system with heat pumps backed by solar panels. The work took four days and eliminated the building's $19,000 annual gas bill. Experts recommend long-term maintenance plans that include gas equipment replacement, so costs can be spread out and emergency repairs avoided.
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The City of Whittlesea has launched a Home Energy Program to help local households reduce energy costs and make informed choices about energy use. The program offers practical advice on energy-efficient homes and on taking first steps toward electric appliances. Free events throughout the year will let residents speak with experts. A free home energy assessment will be available soon, along with Speed Date sessions with specialists and a Home Energy Expo. Mayor Lawrie Cox said the program helps residents work out what suits their home and budget.
Homeowners, renters, landlords and businesses in Monash can now access council-backed, vetted tradespeople through the Monash Home Energy Program. A home energy assessment shows where heat enters a home and which upgrades will bring the greatest benefit. Options include improved insulation, draught sealing, solar panels, battery storage, heat pump hot water systems, efficient heating and cooling, induction cooktops and electric vehicle chargers. The program aims to make homes more comfortable, lower energy bills and better prepare households for the summer ahead.
Gas use in the ACT has fallen about 20 per cent since 2020, according to territory figures. The government has set a goal of moving off gas by 2045. Fiona Wright, from the ACT's climate change and energy division, said older apartment buildings are the biggest remaining challenge. The Energy Efficiency Council ranked the ACT first nationally for energy efficiency but urged a formal requirement to replace gas appliances. Grattan Institute's Alison Reeve warned that rising charges for remaining customers could hurt renters and low-income households.
Alfa Romeo has unveiled the Cuorerosso 2+2 coupe at the 2026 Paris Motor Show, saying it previews the design direction of its future electrified models. The company says the concept will not enter production. Instead, it may preview design themes for successors to the Giulia sedan and Stelvio SUV, though neither replacement has been officially confirmed. The current Giulia and Stelvio are due to remain in production until the end of 2027. Alfa Romeo has also dropped its earlier plan to sell only electric vehicles in Europe, North America and China by 2027.
