News & Updates
Inquiry calls for stronger apartment governance to unlock renewable and affordable energy
We’re part of an apartment advocacy collective spotlighting the policy settings and programs needed to ensure apartment communities can participate in the energy transition. Many of our recommendations have been included in the Parliamentary Inquiry into renewable and affordable energy for apartments.
Listen: Why apartments could be at the forefront of renewable energy adoption, rather than an afterthought
A podcast by Renew Economoy and Switched On Australia.
Australia's rooftop solar and battery boom has largely bypassed the millions of people who live in apartments. Allume Energy co-founder and CEO Cameron Knox argues that rather than being left behind in the energy transition, apartments have the potential to be at the forefront of residential renewable energy generation.
New study: ‘Green’ Apartment features can earn developers more, then save homeowners money
Apartments stand out. The research highlights apartment developments as a particularly strong opportunity, because the combined upfront cost per apartment is modest relative to the total extra profit made from selling greener apartments.
New release: EV-ready guide for owners corporations
The Victorian Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA) has just released a brand new EV-ready guide for owners corporations.
Watch: Victorian OC Act Review Q&A
Panellists Tom Bacon and Julie McLean, hosted by OCN's Janette Corcoran, delivered an interactive session focused on the proposed reforms, what's currently before Parliament, and the decisions that could affect your owners corporation, committee, building and your rights as a lot owner.
City of Yarra Apartment Electrification Pilot
All Electric Homes, Electrify Yarra the City of Yarra are providing the advice you need as part of an apartment electrification pilot. Eligible apartment complexes may also receive a feasibility assessment valued at up to $1,500 at no cost.
Energy Consumers Australia funds apartment action research
Energy Consumers Australia (ECA) has funded the Unlocking Electrification Upgrades in Apartment Buildings action research project. The project will deliver new insights, tools and templates to support apartment communities to electrify. A partnership project from OCN, Let Me Be Frank and High Life Living.
‘Balcony solar’ and plug‑in systems could help cut your energy costs. But only if rules change
Researchers from UNSW and RMIT have recently released new research - Opportunities and barriers for photovoltaics on multi-unit residential buildings: Reviewing the Australian experience - and are talking about it The Conversation:
Australia is a world leader when it comes to adopting rooftop solar systems. But our solar transition is leaving renters and apartment dwellers behind.
Millions of flat-dwelling Australians are missing out on rooftop solar
The Guardian’s Petra Stock writes:
Apartment living can be a barrier to solar and battery adoption. Here’s how to navigate the hurdles and practicalities.
Electrifying Apartment Buildings Program: Expressions of interest
Deadline extended until Sunday 26 July 2026
Expressions of Interest are now open for eligible medium and high-rise apartment buildings across Metropolitan Melbourne to receive a free Electrification Feasibility Assessment, NABERS for Apartments rating, and Energy Efficiency Opportunity Report.
Inquiry into renewable and affordable energy for apartments
This Victorian Government inquiry is looking at expanding access to renewable and affordable electricity for people living in apartments, townhouses and other multi-unit dwellings.
The inquiry heard energy policy has been designed around detached housing.
Victorian Government: OC Act Review released
This affects you.
The Victorian Government appointed an panel to review the OC Act to identify opportunities to improve its operation. Their report has now been released publicly. We encourage you to have a read and stay informed.
The magic room
“In my apartment block’s ‘Room of Unlimited Magical Recycling Possibilities’ I found not just freebies, but friends” writes The Guardian’s Dani Smith.
Stonnington Council’s New Subsidy for Apartment Solar
Join this free online information session on Thursday 26 February at 7:30 pm to discover how shared solar works.
Have your say: clean energy for renters in apartments
Environment Victoria want to hear from renters in apartments or units to expand access to the benefits of energy efficient, all-electric, clean energy powered homes. Closing: 20 February 2026.
Inquiry into renewable and affordable energy for apartments
Public submissions are open until 27 February for an inquiry into expanding access to renewable and affordable electricity for people living in apartments, townhouses and other multi-unit dwellings.
Reserach: food waste in Multi-Unit Dwellings
Researcher seeking to interview owners corporation members: Tackling food waste in Multi-Unit Dwellings: the role of Owners Corporations in food waste diversion
Share your Experience: NABERS for apartments
NABERS is undertaking a research project to understand how disclosure schemes can support owners in making energy efficiency upgrades to common areas of apartment buildings. Find out how your can participate.
SCA Free Committee Training: October 2025
The training covers essential guidance on effective governance for committee members, focusing on compliance with strata legislation and meeting stakeholder expectations.