Wood heaters are to be phased out in Canberra by 2045. Photo: James Coleman.
The ACT Government has announced it will now pay Canberrans $500 to remove wood heaters from their home, citing concerns about health and air quality impact.
In December 2023, the Medical Journal of Australia published a paper that estimated smoke from domestic wood heaters killed up to 63 people a year in the capital.
Researchers found the smoke emitted can worsen conditions like asthma and increase risks of heart attacks, cancer and strokes.
The government already pledged to phase wood heaters out by 2045 and has been offering financial incentives to have them replaced for the past 20 years. Today’s announcement (26 July) doubles the rebate amount, which was previously $250.
Minister for the Environment, Parks and Land Management Rebecca Vassarotti said the increased financial support would help Canberrans who are concerned about the health impacts of woodfire smoke and want to make their next heating choice electric.
“To make sure we continue to support and encourage Canberrans to transition away from potentially harmful wood heaters, the ACT Government has doubled rebates … for most Canberrans removing their wood heaters,” Ms Vassarotti said.
Concession card holders, such as pensioners and veterans, will be offered $1,250 to make the switch.
“Research has shown us that wood heater smoke can have a massive impact on the health of Canberrans over the long term. If they’re not paying the price now, many risk paying the price later in life through doctor’s bills and healthcare costs,” Ms Vassarotti said
“It’s important to remember that wood heater smoke doesn’t just affect us outside our homes; it seeps into our homes, impacting air quality and the health of our neighbours without us even knowing. This is particularly harmful to people who have respiratory conditions like asthma.
“I’ve spoken to many Canberrans who are keen to transition away from wood heaters towards clean and green alternatives – and I want to support them through that process. Many have flagged the health concerns, cost savings and the environment as reasons they want to make the switch.”
Ms Vassarotti added that additional rebates and interest-free loans are available to install new electric heating and cooling.
“Since the program began in 2004, over 1300 wood heaters have been removed, with 33 rebates paid in the past 12 months,” she said.
Earlier this year, the ACT Government commenced a trial to replace wood heaters with an energy-efficient reverse-cycle system in public housing properties.
“Already under the trial, 19 tenants have agreed to replace their wood heaters – a fantastic initiative to show the work the ACT Government is already doing to reach our 2045 phase-out targets,” Ms Vassarotti said.
“I would strongly encourage all Canberrans who have a wood heater in their home to get onto Google, look up the options available to you and consider transitioning to an efficient electric heating system now. Make the switch for the health and savings of your family and for all Canberrans.”
To apply for a rebate or find out more about the Wood Heater Removal Program, visit ACT Everyday Climate Choices.
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