Glenn Evans from the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) highlights the importance of sustainability and the path to net zero via the installation of heat pumps. What does this mean for the industry?
Australia’s path to a net zero future isn’t just about ambition – it’s about action. And much of that action is already happening in our homes, through the adoption of cleaner, smarter technologies like hot water heat pump systems.
The recent federal election further underscored public backing for sustainability and climate-conscious solutions. In response, the sector is stepping up to deliver practical, scalable technologies that can accelerate our transition to net zero by 2050.
Among the most promising solutions gaining momentum is the hot water heat pump. Fast becoming a popular alternative to gas, they’re energy efficient, climate-friendly, and increasingly backed by government incentives. But the speed of this uptake comes with a responsibility: to ensure these systems are installed safely, professionally, and in line with environmental standards.
A key detail that’s often overlooked is that many of these hot water heat pumps, such as split systems, use refrigerants, and if not properly handled, can be harmful to both people and the environment. That means installing or maintaining these units isn’t just general plumbing or mechanical work. It requires specialist knowledge and skillset.
At the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC), we’ve long said that working on equipment with controlled refrigerant must be treated with care, backed by formal training and licensing. That’s why the national ARCTick licence exists. This licensing framework is in place to make sure technicians working with refrigerants have the right training and credentials. Without it, there’s a risk that poor installation practices could lead to leaks, safety issues, or environmental harm.
We were pleased to see the recent announcement from the Victorian State Electricity Commission and the Victorian Government expanding their all-electric housing pilot into Maroondah and the Yarra Ranges. Programs like this demonstrate strong leadership by promoting energy-efficient homes and driving the adoption of sustainable technologies.
But as this transition accelerates, so too does the need for qualified professionals. Any system containing controlled refrigerants, like many heat pump units, must, by law, be installed and serviced by a licensed technician under the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas Management Act 1989. It’s not just good practice; it’s a legal requirement.
This ensures three critical things: systems are installed to a compliant standard, refrigerants are managed safely, and households are protected from the risks of substandard work.
By recognising refrigeration and air conditioning as a specialised vocation and maintaining high standards through licensing, we strengthen the reputation of the sector, the safety, and environmental performance of Australian homes.
The move to a net-zero economy won’t be achieved by technology alone. It will be achieved by the skilled people who bring that technology to life. Let’s make sure they have the support, training, and recognition they need to keep doing it right.
