Switch on to better heating options with new subsidy

Published on 14 April 2025

Asthma Australia is funding a new project that will help residents in the Armidale region make the switch to more environmentally friendly heating options.

Applicants applying to the Make the Switch project will receive a subsidy of $3000 towards the cost of removing their woodfire heater and replacing them with a suitable reverse cycle air conditioner.

This project is a collaboration between Armidale Regional Council (ARC) and the University of Tasmania.

Asthma Australia is encouraging people across the country to make the switch away from wood heaters and help clean up our winter air.

According to Asthma Australia, smoke pollution from domestic wood heaters is one of the largest sources of air pollution during winter months in many areas.

ARC Mayor Sam Coupland said this initiative was a positive step towards improving air quality over winter months.

“The Make the Switch project will help fund households in the region who want to change their heating source from a woodfire to reverse cycle,” he said. “In particular, the subsidy of $3000 will help those suffering from asthma and improve their indoor air quality and year-round temperature control.”

Criteria for funding includes:

•          Applicants must reside in the Armidale Region.

•          Candidates submitting an EOI will be assessed for suitability, and some applicants may not be successful.

•          Places are limited.

•          Rental properties are not included in this initiative.

EOI submissions will be open from Monday 14 April and close 30 May.