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7NEWS
12 hours ago
- Business
- 7NEWS
Property rush: Aussies fast-track home buying
If you're thinking about buying or selling property in Australia, there's one clear message from new research: buyers aren't wasting time anymore. According to a new study by done in partnership with market research agency Australian Regional Insights, Australians are dramatically speeding up their home buying journey. The average time it now takes for a buyer to go from the "dreaming" phase to actually purchasing a property has fallen from 29.6 months in 2020 to just 20.6 months in 2025. More than 700 property-engaged Australians took part in the national survey, which aimed to better understand how buyers and sellers approach the property journey, what drives them, how they find information, and how long it all takes. This is the fourth time has run this study since 2020, giving it a rich historical lens on changing market behaviours. Paul Tyrrell, Chief Marketing Officer at View Media Group, says the findings reflect a real shift in buyer urgency. "The significant reduction in time buyers are taking to move along the path to purchase is a clear sign of increased buyer urgency amid falling interest rates and a more favorable lending landscape," Tyrrell explains. "Stock availability due to the ongoing housing availability crisis is clearly an issue that accelerates this urgency." It's not just about starting the journey sooner, buyers are also finishing it quicker. Once in the "active" phase of their search (putting in offers or attending auctions), the average time to purchase has more than halved from 6.8 months in 2022 to just 3.2 months this year. "The research highlights that buyers know the time to act is now, and they want to purchase before another property boom cycle hits the market, driven by government first home buyer and downsizer incentives, interest rate cuts and greater borrowing capacity," Tyrrell adds. The bigger picture: Housing market conditions in 2025 The study's findings align closely with broader housing market trends. Cotality's (formerly CoreLogic) latest Pain & Gain Report for the March 2025 quarter shows the vast majority (94.9 per cent) of residential property resales were profitable, up from 94.6 per cent in the previous quarter. That equates to a median gain of $305,000 per sale. But not all segments of the market are equal. Units continue to lag behind houses in performance. 9.9 per cent of unit resales were made at a loss, compared to just 2.8 per cent of house resales. This discrepancy is especially important for investors to note as they weigh which property type offers better long-term returns. The recent increase in property profitability is likely to drive more investors and sellers into the market, while also putting pressure on available stock. Add in Australia's ongoing housing supply shortage, and it's no surprise buyers are jumping in quickly when they find the right opportunity. Who's buying (and selling)? According to the survey, two groups are especially active right now: first-home buyers and downsizers. This insight reflects a combination of government incentives targeted at both ends of the market and shifting lifestyle preferences in a post-pandemic world. For sellers, the data offers some helpful insights too. Vendors typically sell within three months, with settlements taking just under four. Most still choose to go through a traditional real estate agency, and agents and brokers are chosen based on their personality, local suburb expertise and sales approach - vendors are choosing an individual more than a brand. Trent Casson, Managing Director of Residential at View Media Group, says the annual research is key to understanding how both buyers and sellers are adapting. "The path to purchase research is key for our business as it helps us in further understanding the ever-evolving behavior of buyers and sellers," Casson says. "This in turn helps inform our product strategy, whilst also validating our commercial strategy. Furthermore, this research assists in educating our premium partners and helping them further understand the behaviors of potential customers." How are buyers finding information? While property portals remain a go-to source, the study found a growing reliance on Google searches and social media, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. In fact, Gen Z buyers reported using social media as a property resource at a rate of 58 per cent, compared to 33 per cent of Millennials. This shift in information sources has implications for how sellers market their homes, and how investors research new opportunities. What it means for you Whether you're a buyer trying to beat the competition, a seller hoping to time the market, or an investor watching for the next upswing, the message is clear: the property market is moving faster than ever. Falling interest rates, rising buyer confidence, and a tight housing supply are combining to create a competitive landscape. Acting quickly, but with the right information, has never been more important. And with profitability climbing, particularly for house resales, there's reason for confidence whether you're entering or exiting the market.
7NEWS
2 days ago
- Business
- 7NEWS
Brisbane leads as smaller capitals diverge in winter auction trends
WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | | 7NEWS By Tim McDonald Auction momentum across the smaller capitals remained steady last week, with Brisbane recording 152 auctions and a preliminary clearance rate of 66.7 percent, its strongest early result since mid-May. The result suggests that while volumes were moderate, buyer interest is holding firm across the Queensland capital. Adelaide once again emerged as the nation's top performer, with a preliminary clearance rate of 77.5 percent, the highest of any capital city. This also marks the South Australian capital's best preliminary result since early April, underscoring continued demand in a market known for its consistency and affordability. In Canberra, 64 homes went under the hammer, with early results showing a clearance rate of 55.3 percent. While softer than the larger cities, the ACT market remains active as winter trading conditions settle in. Looking ahead, auction volumes are expected to remain relatively steady, with around 2,080 homes scheduled to go under the hammer nationally this week. However, activity is forecast to dip below 1,800 the following week as seasonal factors and cooler weather begin to take their usual toll on listings and buyer activity. Auction success in Fulham SA as family favourite fetches $1.95 million A crowd of neighbours and onlookers gathered on auction day to watch 3 Samuel Street, Fulham go under the hammer, and the result justified the excitement. The expansive, single-level residence sold for $1.95 million, confirming its place among the premier properties in Adelaide's tightly held coastal west. Belle Property listing agent Rhys Digance said more than 60 groups inspected the home in the lead-up to the auction, with strong interest from local families. "It's a standout in the area," he said. "The buyers were drawn to the generous proportions, the flexible floorplan and the fact that it takes full advantage of the block. Being single-level just added to the appeal." Built in 2014, the five-bedroom home offers a refined blend of luxury and liveability, with multiple indoor and outdoor living zones, a sleek stone-appointed kitchen and a dedicated study or fifth bedroom. At the rear, an oversized tiled alfresco framed by low-maintenance landscaping anchors the home's easy entertaining appeal. "The auction had a perfect atmosphere," Digance said. "It was a great turnout, plenty of local families and neighbours, and it reflected the rarity of homes like this in Fulham." With its close proximity to Henley Beach, quality schools and scenic open spaces, 3 Samuel Street is a blueprint for modern family living in one of Adelaide's most sought-after seaside suburbs. Private sale in tight Perth market draws serious heat in winter chill In a market defined by low supply and high competition, the private sale of 14 Monash Way, Abbey has proven just how far buyers are willing to go for the right property and just how much excitement a sale can generate, even without an auctioneer's hammer. With just 4,000 properties currently listed in Perth, according to Ray White Western Australia CEO Mark Whiteman, buyers are feeling the squeeze. "Demand has surged, especially following the recent interest rate cut," Whiteman said. "We're seeing packed open homes, fierce competition and a real sense of urgency. Right now, winter is shaping up to be one of the best times to sell." Tapping into that momentum, Ray White Stocker Preston agents Jason and Mandi Cooper launched the sale of 14 Monash Street, a coastal gem in Abbey, Busselton. Despite wild winter weather and threats of hail, over 70 people poured through the home on inspection day. "The place was packed. People were crammed into the living room, on the deck, out in the yard," Mandi said. "It felt more like a celebration than a sale." While the property ultimately sold through private negotiation for $1.47 million, the energy rivalled that of a major auction. The buyer, an interstate house-hunter seeking a second home, flew in to secure the deal, one of four registered parties vying for the prize. "This is what we love about real estate," Jason added. "Even without the auction format, the energy, emotion and engagement were electric." Bulimba Queenslander sells for $1.95m ending in heartfelt group hug A long-held Queenslander at 108 Stuart Street Bulimba 's prestigious river avenues has sold under the hammer for $1.95 million, following a fast-paced and emotional auction that drew a crowd of 80 despite the rain. Located on an elevated, north-facing 567-square-metre corner block, the charmer was offered for the first time in 45 years. Listing agent Paula Pearce of Place Bulimba said the home, in beautifully preserved original condition, had captured the imagination of families and builders alike. "We had eight registered bidders and four actively competing on the day," Pearce said. "It's rare to find a property in this pocket with so much potential: north-facing, corner position, possible city views and just steps from Oxford Street." Bidding opened at $1.6 million and climbed quickly without pause. The hammer eventually fell at $1.95 million to a local family planning to renovate and create their forever home. "It was a strong, competitive auction from start to finish," Pearce said. "Even in the rain, the energy was fantastic." The home, while likely to be rebuilt, showcased charming original features like VJ walls, breezeways and high ceilings. The auction ended in an emotional embrace between the vendors and buyers, a touching moment after nearly half a century of family ownership.
7NEWS
2 days ago
- Business
- 7NEWS
Winter slowdown brings steady opportunities for buyers in top capital cities
WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | | 7NEWS Auction activity stepped back slightly last week, with 2,040 homes going under the hammer across the combined capital cities. This marked a 6.6 percent drop in volume compared to the previous week and a 5.1 percent decline year-on-year. Despite the softer numbers, buyer competition proved strong, with the preliminary clearance rate rising to 73.9 percent, the highest level since July 2024. The result signals a sharp rebound from the slowdown seen over the King's Birthday long weekend two weeks prior, when the preliminary clearance rate dipped to 63.8 percent amid reduced listings and public holiday timing. Melbourne led the nation in auction volumes, hosting 947 auctions for the week. Its preliminary clearance rate came in at an impressive 76.6 percent, the city's strongest result since May 2023 and the second-highest performance nationally, just behind Adelaide. In Sydney, 789 properties were taken to auction. The harbour city reported a preliminary clearance rate of 73.5 percent, its highest since late February 2025, when the Reserve Bank delivered its first interest rate cut of the year. The improved result points to renewed buyer confidence and a tightening market in key metropolitan areas, even as winter sets in. Riverside penthouse apartment dazzles at auction with $1.115 million result A vibrant crowd of 60 turned out to watch bidding unfold for the riverside penthouse at 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, and they weren't disappointed. The top-floor Deco apartment with sweeping city views and brilliant northern light sold under the hammer for $1.115 million, delivering a dynamic result in one of Melbourne's most protected pockets. Belle Property's Mark Konishi, who led the campaign, said interest was strong from the outset. "We had 57 groups through the apartment during the campaign and five registered bidders on the day," he said. "It was good fun, good energy and a really entertaining auction. The crowd was into it." Spanning an impressive 148 square metres, the two-bedroom residence is the crown jewel of its Art Deco complex. A spacious living zone unfolds across three distinct lounge, dining and sitting areas, all bathed in north light and opening onto a full-width balcony that frames the Yarra and city skyline. Bidding opened at $910,000 and quickly escalated as a third-party bidder pushed the price to $1.107 million. In the final moments, the original bidder returned to clinch the win at $1.115 million. Konishi said the result highlighted the long-term strength of Melbourne's prestige apartment market. "The property last sold in the mid-$600,000s back in 2006," he said. "To see it achieve $1.115 million today shows an uplift of more than 70 percent. It's a strong return, especially for a unique residence like this with such a premium riverside position." Manly apartment sells for $2.86m in emotional auction finale on Eastern Hill A rare opportunity at one of Manly's most premier addresses has captured hearts and headlines, with a near-original apartment in Marlborough Gardens selling under the hammer for $2.86 million. More than 100 onlookers gathered outside 8/140 Addison Road NSW to witness a spirited auction that saw three competitive bidders vie for the landmark Eastern Hill property. Listing agent Mark Skeens of Stone Real Estate Manly said the sale was not only a financial success but an emotional moment for the estate. "The estate had been owned by a 92-year-old gentleman who bought it back in 1977 for just $41,500," Skeens said. "He passed away with no children, and as per his will, the full proceeds from the sale will be donated to two separate charities. It was a very special result." Sold to a downsizing couple, the 114-square-metre apartment offered a pristine canvas for reinvention, with generous proportions, a sun-drenched balcony and leafy ocean glimpses. "This is the best part of Manly," Skeens added. "It's freehold land, footsteps to Fairy Bower and in a building that rarely sees turnover." With the final price representing a more than 6,700 percent increase since it was last purchased, the sale stands as both a remarkable return on investment and a testament to Manly's enduring coastal prestige. Where oranges grow, fortune follows. Family treasure in Geelong West fetches $1.16m after heartfelt auction. There were smiles, sunshine and even mandarins at the auction of 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, as the beloved family home sold for $1.16 million after a spirited 20-bid showdown. The classic character home, held by one family for 60 years, attracted 75 groups through its pre-auction campaign, with three registered bidders competing on the day. Jellis Craig agent Marcus Falconer said the result was deeply meaningful for the vendors. "The owners' children had recently renovated the home for their parents, so it was very emotional watching it change hands," he said. "There were tears, but also pride. They were thrilled with the outcome." Set on a wide 752-square-metre block, the home offered charm and potential in equal measure. Character details like high ceilings, timber fretwork and a bay window met modern updates, including a north-facing living zone, expansive backyard and undercover deck perfect for family life. "It's neat as a pin, with plenty of room to grow," said Falconer. "And it's in one of the most desirable pockets of Geelong West." As the auction wrapped up, the new owners left with more than a new address. The sellers handed them a bag full of mandarins from the backyard tree, a warm parting gift from one family to another.
Canberra Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Canberra Times
Winter slowdown brings steady opportunities for buyers in top capital cities
WATCH: Australian auction surge fuels confidence | | 7NEWS By Tim McDonald Auction activity stepped back slightly last week, with 2,040 homes going under the hammer across the combined capital cities. This marked a 6.6 percent drop in volume compared to the previous week and a 5.1 percent decline year-on-year. Despite the softer numbers, buyer competition proved strong, with the preliminary clearance rate rising to 73.9 percent, the highest level since July 2024. The result signals a sharp rebound from the slowdown seen over the King's Birthday long weekend two weeks prior, when the preliminary clearance rate dipped to 63.8 percent amid reduced listings and public holiday timing. Melbourne led the nation in auction volumes, hosting 947 auctions for the week. Its preliminary clearance rate came in at an impressive 76.6 percent, the city's strongest result since May 2023 and the second-highest performance nationally, just behind Adelaide. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied In Sydney, 789 properties were taken to auction. The harbour city reported a preliminary clearance rate of 73.5 percent, its highest since late February 2025, when the Reserve Bank delivered its first interest rate cut of the year. The improved result points to renewed buyer confidence and a tightening market in key metropolitan areas, even as winter sets in. Riverside penthouse apartment dazzles at auction with $1.115 million result A vibrant crowd of 60 turned out to watch bidding unfold for the riverside penthouse at 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, and they weren't disappointed. The top-floor Deco apartment with sweeping city views and brilliant northern light sold under the hammer for $1.115 million, delivering a dynamic result in one of Melbourne's most protected pockets. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Belle Property's Mark Konishi, who led the campaign, said interest was strong from the outset. "We had 57 groups through the apartment during the campaign and five registered bidders on the day," he said. "It was good fun, good energy and a really entertaining auction. The crowd was into it." SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Spanning an impressive 148 square metres, the two-bedroom residence is the crown jewel of its Art Deco complex. A spacious living zone unfolds across three distinct lounge, dining and sitting areas, all bathed in north light and opening onto a full-width balcony that frames the Yarra and city skyline. Bidding opened at $910,000 and quickly escalated as a third-party bidder pushed the price to $1.107 million. In the final moments, the original bidder returned to clinch the win at $1.115 million. SOLD: 9/67 Alexandra Avenue, South Yarra, VIC 3141 Pic: Supplied Konishi said the result highlighted the long-term strength of Melbourne's prestige apartment market. "The property last sold in the mid-$600,000s back in 2006," he said. "To see it achieve $1.115 million today shows an uplift of more than 70 percent. It's a strong return, especially for a unique residence like this with such a premium riverside position." Manly apartment sells for $2.86m in emotional auction finale on Eastern Hill A rare opportunity at one of Manly's most premier addresses has captured hearts and headlines, with a near-original apartment in Marlborough Gardens selling under the hammer for $2.86 million. More than 100 onlookers gathered outside 8/140 Addison Road NSW to witness a spirited auction that saw three competitive bidders vie for the landmark Eastern Hill property. SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied Listing agent Mark Skeens of Stone Real Estate Manly said the sale was not only a financial success but an emotional moment for the estate. "The estate had been owned by a 92-year-old gentleman who bought it back in 1977 for just $41,500," Skeens said. "He passed away with no children, and as per his will, the full proceeds from the sale will be donated to two separate charities. It was a very special result." SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied Sold to a downsizing couple, the 114-square-metre apartment offered a pristine canvas for reinvention, with generous proportions, a sun-drenched balcony and leafy ocean glimpses. "This is the best part of Manly," Skeens added. "It's freehold land, footsteps to Fairy Bower and in a building that rarely sees turnover." SOLD: 8/140 Addison Road, Manly, NSW 2095 Pic: Supplied With the final price representing a more than 6,700 percent increase since it was last purchased, the sale stands as both a remarkable return on investment and a testament to Manly's enduring coastal prestige. Where oranges grow, fortune follows. Family treasure in Geelong West fetches $1.16m after heartfelt auction. There were smiles, sunshine and even mandarins at the auction of 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, as the beloved family home sold for $1.16 million after a spirited 20-bid showdown. SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied The classic character home, held by one family for 60 years, attracted 75 groups through its pre-auction campaign, with three registered bidders competing on the day. Jellis Craig agent Marcus Falconer said the result was deeply meaningful for the vendors. "The owners' children had recently renovated the home for their parents, so it was very emotional watching it change hands," he said. "There were tears, but also pride. They were thrilled with the outcome." SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied Set on a wide 752-square-metre block, the home offered charm and potential in equal measure. Character details like high ceilings, timber fretwork and a bay window met modern updates, including a north-facing living zone, expansive backyard and undercover deck perfect for family life. "It's neat as a pin, with plenty of room to grow," said Falconer. "And it's in one of the most desirable pockets of Geelong West." SOLD: 3 Mowat Street, Geelong West, VIC 3218 Pic: Supplied As the auction wrapped up, the new owners left with more than a new address. The sellers handed them a bag full of mandarins from the backyard tree, a warm parting gift from one family to another.
Canberra Times
02-06-2025
- Business
- Canberra Times
What the Federal Government's solar rebates mean and how to cut your power bills
WATCH: Where Aussie Airbnb hosts earn THE MOST | | 7NEWS The Federal Government's new solar battery rebate, announced as part of the 2025 Budget, is an important piece of the puzzle that is Australia's energy transition and quest for Net Zero by 2050. While one in three Australian homes currently have solar panels, shockingly, only one in forty is equipped with a battery. That's about to change. Slimline batteries are unobtrusive and blend into your home. Pic Solar Battery Group From 01 July, the new scheme gives eligible households across Australia a 30 per cent upfront discount on solar batteries, unlocking long-term power bill savings, helping to reduce grid pressure, and supporting the country's carbon-neutral mission. But, what does the rebate really mean for Australian homeowners and how does the scheme fit into the bigger picture? To find out, View reporter Jessica Agoston Cleary did a deep dive into the research and talked to the chief executive officer (CEO) of Solar Battery Group, James Hetherington. As the man in charge of the largest solar battery provider in Australia, Hetherington is not only an expert on the topic, he's also firmly committed to making energy sustainable and affordable. Here's what you need to know. How much could you save? The new scheme "is a win for family budgets and for the country's energy transition," Mr Hetherington says. "The savings are significant. A family with a 5kW solar system and a 10kWh battery can trim grid usage by about 60 to 80 per cent. At today's tariffs, that's roughly $2,300 a year." What's equally as impressive is that the benefit appears from the very first quarterly bill - provided usage habits remain consistent. These savings go beyond reductions in your power bill. Having lower energy costs translates into an increase in disposable income, which is always a good thing in today's economy. According to an LBL report, even a $100 drop in annual energy costs leads to a 2.3 per cent drop in mortgage default odds. How does the rebate work? Unlike state-based schemes, the Federal Government's rebate applies at the point of sale. . "From 1 July 2025 the accredited installer applies the 30 per cent Federal discount; you see the price reduction on your invoice and the installer later redeems the value," Mr Hetherington says. This makes it simpler and more immediate than many state incentives, which typically provide fixed rebates or interest-free loans after installation. The Federal solar scheme is national, uncapped, and percentage-based, with a one batter per household limit. Can I combine it with state incentives? The short answer that we all want to hear is yes! "The Commonwealth has designed the new rebate to be 'stackable'," Mr Hetherington confirms. "In Victoria, New South Wales or Western Australia, for example, you may add the 30 per cent discount to your state rebate or loan, provided the combined support does not exceed the installed cost." It's important to note that while the battery rebate scheme is 'stackable', the other available incentives and schemes vary from state to state. To find out more about how to maximise your savings visit your state government website. Against natural timber cladding the batteries may stand out more but theyre part of sustainable design choices. Pic Solar Battery Group Who's eligible - and what are the common traps? Eligibility for the scheme is broad, with owner-occupiers, landlords and small businesses connected to the grid able to access the rebate, as long as they install an approved battery between 5kWh and 100kWh with a Clean Energy Council-accredited installer. As with any new government scheme, there are a few misconceptions floating around. "Retrospective claims on existing batteries are not allowed," Mr Hetherington cautions. He also points out that "taking the Federal rebate does not cancel your state incentive." What are people asking - and what should they be asking? Since the announcement, Solar Battery Group has seen inquiries triple. Most callers want to know how cheap a battery can be. But Hetherington says the better questions to ask are: "What is my evening usage profile? What is the warranty of batteries? Can the system join a virtual power plant?" For those new to the solar conversation, a virtual power plant (VPP) probably sounds more like science fiction than reality. However, there are numerous VPP's around the country. In Victoria, for example, more than 700,000 households use solar energy. Essentially, a VPP creates a microgrid. By connecting individual household batteries in an energy-sharing network, small amounts of surplus energy are fed back into the network for use by others in the community. This not only helps balance out supply and demand on the electricity grid, it also reduces individual power bills as you can even be paid for your contribution. WATCH: What is a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)? | Solar Victoria Asking the questions Mr etherington suggested, together with finding out if your community has a VPP, will help to determine the real-world performance and revenue potential of your solar energy system. What kind of system does a typical home need? The right size depends on your night-time energy usage and the capacity of your solar panels. The most important factor is that your battery is able to store every kilowatt of precious energy your solar panels generate so that none of it gets lost. "Most families would require a 10kWh unit, which after the rebate, allows us to bring our prices down to $5,000," Mr Hetherington says. Solar Battery Group's batteries feature integrated smart technology to monitor usage, and their team of dedicated agents are available to help homeowners understand and optimise their systems. There are also a number of great resources and tips for optimising your solar energy system at Smaller batterys can be easily mounted to any external wall. Pic Solar Battery Group When will I break even? As with anything to do with property, return on investment (ROI) is always top of mind, and thanks to the rebate, payback periods have shortened dramatically. "Most households can expect a return on investment in three to four years," Mr Hetherington says. "Well within the 10-year product warranty and well before the battery's 15-year expected lifespan." How can I check I'm not being misled? "Make sure you do your research," Mr Hetherington says. "Start by understanding your power consumption and current solar generation. Then check the Clean Energy Council approved suppliers and products list and speak to a certified installer." Once again, has some excellent guides and resources about making the switch to solar. From installation, maintenance, figuring out what size system you need, to estimating your cost savings. Beyond bills: what else can a battery do for me? The benefits of having a solar battery storage system go well beyond cutting costs. "Black-out resilience, the ability to join virtual power plants and earn credits, readiness for EV charging, higher property value, and a lower carbon footprint," Mr Hetherington says. "It also eases peak-demand pressure on the grid." As already noted, energy-efficient homes command a premium sale price, which is music to any property owner's ears. But, there are far greater benefits to owning and living in an energy efficient, sustainable home. As noted on prefab modular home website Ecolive, "A sustainable energy efficient home provides lifestyle benefits, such as cross-ventilation, north-facing orientation, heat recovery ventilation, and solar panels." Track usage and monitor savings digitally. Pic Solar Battery Group Is now the right time to act? There are two ways to look at answering this question. On a larger, macro level, as part of the Paris Agreement, Australia has set itself the goal of being Net Zero by 2050. As stated by the Australian Government Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water, "A strong Australian contribution to emissions reduction helps in the global effort to reduce major environmental, health and economic risks from the dangerous effects of climate change. This global effort is essential to protecting Australia from the worst climate impacts." You might be thinking 'I'm all for playing my part, but what impact will transitioning to solar really have in the grand scheme of things?" You'd be surprised. On a micro level, the impact of individual household choices has a significant part to play. "Residential buildings are responsible for around 24 per cent of overall electricity use and more than 10 per cent of total carbon emissions in Australia." The time to act is now, and there is no time like the present - especially when it comes to climate change and taking full advantage of government incentives. "Early adopters capture the full 30 per cent discount; the percentage tapers down each year to 2030," Mr Hetherington says. With 2050 just 25 years away, winter bills looming and installer demand set to spike, getting your ducks in a row - such as working out your energy needs and doing your due diligence on installers - will put you in the perfect position to maximise savings and realise the multifaceted ROI benefits as soon as July first arrives.
