Matt Hewson
A community organisation is hosting a workshop to help renters know their rights regarding heating, cooling and energy efficiency.
Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) Community Geelong will hold the third of workshops in its Energy Efficiency for Renters series at Lab Square Commons in Norlane this Sunday, August 4 from 2pm to 5pm.
Titled Dear Landlord: Asking for what you need, the session will offer participants the chance to discuss their situations and experiences navigating their rental property dilemmas before exploring practical and effective ways to request what they need from landlords.
The workshop will also provide information on renters’ rights and responsibilities for energy efficiency, heating and cooling.
The session will conclude with afternoon tea and a live music performance by local band Seal Prince and the Roof Rats.
The workshop series was developed after a survey conducted by ACF Powering Change project officer Lachie Chomley showed many renters were facing difficulties due to their energy bills.
“We discovered that lots of renters in the region are struggling to stay warm in their homes in winter and cool in summer,” Mr Chomley said.
“This was for lots of reasons, but particularly the cost of heating and the quality of their homes.
“They weren’t able to see the changes they needed, for whatever reason. Lots of people just won’t ask their rental provider or landlord for changes, but also some people were in pretty average scenarios with people who didn’t take much care of their properties.”
Mr Chomley encouraged any renters who wanted some support with their heating, cooling and energy bills to come along.
“Whatever the concern, everybody’s welcome; there’s no situation that is going to be too much for the space,” he said.
“It’s a very low-key, grassroots vibe.”
Visit acf.org.au/acf_community_geelong for more information or to register for a spot.
