Gas lobby ‘scare campaign’ urges Victoria to scrap ban in new homes, leaked documents show
News Source
•Wed, 23 Sep 2026 15:00:51 GMT
📰 What Happened
Leaked documents show the gas industry is pushing Victoria to reverse its ban on gas in new homes. The material was prepared by a lobbyist for the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG).
The document warns household gas bills could rise by $100 a year unless the ban is overturned, but gives no evidence. It also claims 'voters hate the ban' and offers advice on reversing it before the election.
From 1 January, new homes and commercial buildings in Victoria cannot connect to the gas network and must use electricity instead.
🔍 The Backstory
The government says the change could save households $880 a year, or $1,820 with solar panels. AGIG owns and runs major gas networks in Victoria, so its business takes a hit when new homes skip gas.
The document was written by AGIG's lobbyist Ken McAlpine. Critics called it a 'scare campaign' ahead of the state election.
The Coalition has promised to repeal the ban. AGIG is owned by a Hong Kong-led consortium.
🎯 Why It Matters
The fight is about energy costs, climate policy and who sets the rules before an election. It also raises questions about industry lobbying and the accuracy of claims made to ministers.
Leaked documents show the gas industry is pushing Victoria to reverse its ban on gas in new homes. The material was prepared by a lobbyist for the Australian Gas Infrastructure Group (AGIG).
The document warns household gas bills could rise by $100 a year unless the ban is overturned, but gives no evidence. It also claims 'voters hate the ban' and offers advice on reversing it before the election.
From 1 January, new homes and commercial buildings in Victoria cannot connect to the gas network and must use electricity instead.
The government says the change could save households $880 a year, or $1,820 with solar panels. AGIG owns and runs major gas networks in Victoria, so its business takes a hit when new homes skip gas.
The document was written by AGIG's lobbyist Ken McAlpine. Critics called it a 'scare campaign' ahead of the state election.
The Coalition has promised to repeal the ban. AGIG is owned by a Hong Kong-led consortium.
The fight is about energy costs, climate policy and who sets the rules before an election. It also raises questions about industry lobbying and the accuracy of claims made to ministers.