Abstract
Submission summary: We are pleased to see that the [Australian] Senate Economics References Committee are seeking feedback on the introduction of minimum energy efficiency rental standards, and we welcome the opportunity to provide input. This submission is primarily focused on terms of reference c (the case for establishing a target for social housing as a proportion of Australia’s housing stock, including consideration of what an appropriate target may be) and e (the role of modern methods of design and construction in building more social homes and creating communities with a high quality of life). With the overarching message that expanded access to safe, secure, and climate resilient social housing is of critical importance to address population mental health, this submission is structured into three key points:
1. Increasing the supply of safe, secure, good quality social housing is integral to improving the mental health of Australians. (TOR c)
2. All new social housing should be climate-adapted, energy-efficient and designed to support physical, mental and social health. (TOR e)
3. Existing social housing stock should be upgraded through increased implementation of programs such as the Social Housing Energy Performance Initiative (SHEPI).