Heatwaves, homes & health: Why household vulnerability to extreme heat is an electricity policy issue

This report aims to improve the understanding of the impact of eletricity costs, price signals and public messaging on household health, when energy bills contribute to self-rationing of air conditioning during heatwaves in Australia. It documents research conducted with ‘key informants’ from health and social services sector who work with heat vulnerable households, and research with households who may be more at risk in hot weather.  

As a whole, the project aimed to:

• provide evidence regarding potential financial and health implications of electricity pricing and messaging for heat vulnerable households;
• build knowledge among advocates and industry decision makers; and
• develop strategies to help minimise adverse outcomes for households.