Australians give a green light to tackle the big challenges

As the Albanese government celebrates a strong election win and prepares for a second term with a clear majority, AIRAH says industry is eager to harness the momentum and make our country healthier, more sustainable, and more productive.

AIRAH CEO Sami Zheng, Affil.AIRAH, says her first response to the election result was relief.

“Australians have given government a mandate to keep working,” she says. “We expect to see great progress over the coming term.”

Healthier people, healthier planet

The first area Zheng points to is improving the wellbeing of building occupants, in particular by safeguarding indoor air quality.

“Improving indoor air quality is perhaps the greatest opportunity of our generation to lift the quality of life of all Australians,” she says. “We can improve people’s health and productivity, while also protecting the most vulnerable people in our society. We look forward to continuing the positive conversations we have had with the Albanese government and turning these into concrete actions.”

When it comes to addressing climate change, Zheng says the built environment is ready to play a leading role, with proven technologies and strategies – unlike many hard to abate sectors. Through instruments such as the Sectoral Net Zero plan, Trajectory for Low Energy Buildings, expanded NABERS and CBD schemes, stronger policy on refrigerant gases, and ongoing funding for three-yearly revisions to the National Construction Code, she says Australians can have the buildings they deserve, without overburdening the environment.

“It is right that the housing crisis has been a focus throughout the election,” says Zheng.

Workforce priorities

To deliver these goals, Australia needs a strong and plentiful workforce. In the building and construction sector, that means more engineers and more trades.

“It all starts with expanding the pipeline of talent,” says Zheng. “In schools, we need to keep engaging all students with STEM subjects. We also need to recognise the value of vocational education and training, rather than treating it like the poor cousin to university. This requires a holistic, nuanced approach – free TAFE places is a good start, but this must be supported by investment in the facilities and in the educators.”

Overall, Zheng says Labor’s second term presents an opportunity.

About AIRAH

The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) has been a cornerstone of the HVAC&R industry for over 100 years, providing vital support to its members and advancing industry standards. Today, AIRAH unites more than 4,000 industry professionals across Australia, including engineers, technicians, business leaders, educators, government, and other industry bodies.

Our mission is to lead an Australian HVAC&R industry that is highly skilled, safe, and sustainable. We do this through technical leadership, industry transformation, professional and personal development, and community and connection.

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