From The Ashes - Build It Back Green Business Plan

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Pol
Build it back green
From the ashes... a sustainable vision for Green Jobs through Victorian
bushfire reconstruction... Jobs Fund Business Plan
Build it back green: From the ashes...a sustainable vision for Victorian bushfire reconstruction – September 2009
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Executive Summary
“Build it back green” (BIBG) is post bushfire sustainable rebuilding initiative led by Green Cross Australia
with nine partners from the non-profit, job services, union, peak body and research sectors. We aim to
1) create green building jobs, 2) develop green skills, 3) promote energy efficient houses that minimize
water usage and waste, and 4) develop skills which will enhance regional Victoria’s sustainable future.
BIBG will provide the online and community engagement tools required to inspire and support a
minimum of 400 households affected by Black Saturday to rebuild their homes and communities using
advanced sustainability technologies, designs and practices to a 7 star level. Our objective is for each
participating household to reduce its CO2-e emissions by 10 tonnes/annum. Our efforts build on four
years of experience in a similar green rebuilding effort in New Orleans led by Green Cross Australia’s US
affiliate. BIBG is aligned with Jobs Fund “Local Jobs stream” criteria as follows:
 HAVE A POSITIVE IMPACT ON THE ENVIRONMENT -- Due to climate variability and lack of gas
reticulation, typical household CO2-e emissions in the region are over 21 tonnes annually. BIBG aims
to reduce emissions by 10 tonnes/annum and to encourage improved integrated water and waste
solutions. BIBG partners will further deliver work experience and training projects that improve the
conservation, protection and rejuvenation of the magnificent natural environment of the region.
 CREATE AND RETAIN JOBS AND DEVELOP SKILLS -- Nine BIBG partners will directly employ 15 full
time jobs between March 2010 and June 2011. Through our Union partner ETUVIC we will enable
20 electricians personally affected by Black Saturday to complete a specially tailored module of
the GGElectrician training program, so that they can employ 5 apprentices and develop their
businesses in a sustainable direction. Through our job services partner CVGT, BIBG will generate
119 National Green Jobs Corps and other work experience/training/apprentice positions starting
from March 2010 in bushfire affected communities beginning in Flowerdale. In addition to more
than 150 direct job, work experience, training and apprentice positions created by BIBG by June
2011, additional green building, plumbing, design and landscaping jobs will be catalysed as 400
households join in with their neighbours and local small businesses to rebuild green.
 ASSIST DISADVANTAGED GROUPS/REGIONS -- 2,000 people who lost their homes and are
considering whether and how to rebuild them will be assisted by the tools, incentives and practical
support offered by the BIBG initiative. It is our aim to encourage them to make eco-resilient choices
that will create thriving and sustainable communities of the future. Young people who have an
opportunity to receive training, work experience and apprenticeship opportunities associated with
sustainable rebuilding will especially benefit from the BIBG initiative.
 HAVE STRONG COMMUNITY LINKAGES -- BIBG originated from discussions between Flowerdale
community leaders, CSIRO and Green Cross Australia. As our partnership grew to encompass the
Green Building Council of Australia, Australian Conservation Foundation, Alternative Technology
Association, Habitat for Humanity, Green Job Corps Victorian job services provider CVGT and ETUVIC
(who have 40 members affected by Black Saturday) our links into the Kinglake Ranges and Marysville
Community Recovery Committees also grew. A powerful community base supports BIBG.
 BE SUSTAINABLE AND VIABLE -- The US BIBG project has brought in over $15million in grants and
funding towards sustainable recovery efforts in New Orleans, and corporations have invested over
$50 million additionally. We are confident that post July 2011 funding to extend our Victorian BIBG
initiative will be obtained through philanthropic, government and corporate partnerships as our
efforts and outcomes becomes visible, and as the 7,000 households surrounding Black Saturday
affected homes also begin to make investment choices that sustain green jobs in the broader region.
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Why and how to “Build it Back Green” (BIBG)

In early 2009, bushfires swept across Victoria devastating 78 communities and 400,000 hectares of land.
173 people lost their lives. The devastation destroyed 2029 homes along with hundreds of businesses, 5
schools and kindergartens, 3 sporting clubs and numerous other buildings. On 10 February 2009, the
Commonwealth and Victorian Governments established the Victorian Bushfire Reconstruction and
Recovery Authority (VBRRA) to oversee and coordinate the largest recovery and rebuilding program
Victoria has ever faced. The Authority is working with communities, businesses, charities, local councils
and government departments to help rebuild bushfire-affected communities. BIBG partners estimate
that most of the residential rebuilding will occur between 2010 and 2012.
The Build it back green “BIBG” project aims to draw on the experience of its partners (Green Cross
Australia, Green Building Council of Australia, Australian Technology Association, Habitat for Humanity
Australia, the Flowerdale Community, CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship, Victorian Branch of the
Electrical Trades Union, CVGT Job Services Provider and Australian Conservation Foundation) to design
and deliver a community based sustainability project that reflects the aspirations of environmentally
minded affected residents. BIBG will work directly with community stakeholders led by the Flowerdale
Recovery Committee in liaison with Kinglake and Marysville Recovery Committees to identify community
needs. We will engage with green product and service providers to deliver a collaborative sustainability
vision to bushfire affected regions across Victoria in a strategic way.
BIBG aims to provide the technical advice, on-the-ground and web based tools and community
facilitation resources needed to support residents as they (re) imagine the vision for these
communities. BIBG will be able to directly assist implementation of a number of the Bushfire Recovery
and Reconstruction goals through implementation of this plan that will deliver:
1. Global Green Electrician training for 5 electricians and 2 apprentices, and 72 work experience,
training and apprenticeship placements through job services provider CVGT in first 6 months.
2. Support for permit process1 through an ACF Green Planning Liaison Officer engaged in Flowerdale
to provide a bridge from the community to government on green planning matters as required;
3. A deep and interactive “Build it back green” website developed by Green Cross Australia to support
communities, promote BIBG activities, and display green product and service providers.
4. Practical support to bushfire-affected residents through ACF/ATA staffed Green Building Resources
Centre based in Flowerdale. Additional support for VBRRA Rebuilding Advisory Centres in Kinglake
and Marysville with BIBG tools including eco-resilience information to augment materials already
supplied by Sustainability Victoria, and SME support from Green Building Council of Australia.
5. Community Talks Program led by ACF reaching 2,000 residents across region starting in Flowerdale.
6. Support from Victorian Government Agencies for low-income bushfire affected families through a
Habitat for humanity “sweat equity” model involving corporate volunteers and donated materials.
7. Eco-resilience CSIRO research disseminated to residents online and through ACF Community Talks.
BIBG seeks $3.4 million (including $1.9 million from the Jobs Fund) to lead a community centred
sustainable rebuilding effort involving a minimum of 400 households that will be supported to reduce
their greenhouse emissions by 10 tonnes per annum as a result of participating. These households will
be encouraged to take advantage of existing incentives and adopt practical, innovative technologies
that maximise resilient and environmental outcomes towards a truly sustainable future.
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Key issues
Objective of this proposal ...................................................................................................................... 7
Mitigation through adaptation ................................................................................................................. 7
BIBG partnership aims .............................................................................................................................. 8
Flowerdale Community – A hub for regional BIBG engagement .............................................................. 8
The opportunity ..................................................................................................................................... 9
The growing value of low emissions adaptation....................................................................................... 9
Building eco-resilience into post-disaster recovery efforts .................................................................... 10
Pathways to green jobs – creating sustainable economies for Victorian communities ......................... 11
Victorian household emissions: large and growing ................................................................................ 12
Post disaster rebuilding shines bright media spotlight with a message of hope ................................... 14
Bushfire rebuilding - emission reduction opportunities ......................................................................... 15
Potential to cut new home emissions ................................................................................................ 15
More energy savings are available in electricity-dependent areas .................................................... 15
The importance of saving energy on appliances ................................................................................ 17
Global Learning Village ....................................................................................................................... 17
The environment for rebates and incentives ..................................................................................... 18
Our partners and the role they will play in this collaboration ................................................................ 24
What are the key elements of this project?........................................................................................... 26
Partnership development, reporting, evaluation: Green Cross Australia .............................................. 26
Green planning liaison officer: Australian Conservation Foundation ..................................................... 26
Green building resource centre: Alternative Technology Association and Australian Conservation
Foundation .............................................................................................................................................. 27
Eco-resilience focus – CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship ..................................................................... 30
Creating short and long term green trade jobs ...................................................................................... 31
Creating pathways to short and long term green jobs, apprenticeships, work experience and training –
CVGT (Central Victorian Group Training) ................................................................................................ 34
BIBG website – Green Cross Australia .................................................................................................... 37
Green building community talks - Alternative Technology Association and Australian Conservation
Foundation .............................................................................................................................................. 39
Sustainable building support for low income bushfire victims – Habitat for Humanity Australia ......... 42
Green small business rebuilding hub – Green Building Council of Australia .......................................... 44
Coordinated green building volunteer program – Green Building Council of Australia ......................... 44
Communications Outreach Support – Consultant managed by Green Cross Australia.......................... 45
Business Plan and Summary of Cash Flow ............................................................................................. 46
Appendix list........................................................................................................................................ 50
Overview of federal and Victorian programs that align with BIBG activities ......................................... 50
Federal Government: .......................................................................................................................... 50
Victorian Government ........................................................................................................................ 51
New Orleans product category list for Green Vendor Directory ............................................................ 53
ATA sustainable design and lifestyle focus ............................................................................................. 54
ACF GreenHome Program ....................................................................................................................... 55
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Objective of this proposal

Green Cross Australia and its partners Green Building Council of Australia, Australian Conservation
Foundation, Alternative Technology Association, CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship, the Flowerdale
Community, Habitat for Humanity Australia, Victorian Branch of the Electrical Trades Union and CVGT
Job Services Provider seek $3.4 million (including $1.9 million from the Jobs Fund) in order to catalyse
resilient and sustainable reconstruction in the aftermath of Black Saturday. 2029 homes were destroyed
by the fires along with 61 businesses, five schools and kindergartens, three sporting clubs and numerous
other buildings. This proposal addresses residential rebuilding; another proposal addressing community
infrastructure will be released shortly.
The rebuilding effort can foster sustainable communities while reducing greenhouse emissions.
Support for the “Build it back green” (BIBG) partnership will enable us to catalyse:
 A shift in community culture towards a resilient and sustainable future
 Green jobs
 Reduced emissions and lower energy bills
 Intellectual property that can be redeployed in other major rebuilding efforts across Australia
Mitigation through adaptation

Premier John Brumby has stressed that “Climate change is the defining challenge of our times. There is
no doubt that we must take action now to avoid the worst effects of climate change and the damage
and disruption it could cause to our economy, communities and environment. Governments around the
world need to act to stop the problem getting any worse. We have to reduce our greenhouse gas
emissions and shift towards becoming a low carbon economy - one that relies on low emissions forms of
energy and that is much more efficient in using energy resources.”2
The large rebuilding effort underway in the aftermath of tragic Black Saturday bushfires offers a unique
opportunity to encourage investment in sustainable technologies and practices that will deliver more
resilient buildings and communities as well as greenhouse emissions cuts and energy bill savings.
Additionally vital intellectual property will be developed
that can be redeployed as Australia confronts pressing
climate change adaptation challenges.
Similar initiatives in the United States demonstrate the

power of collaborative adaptation measures including
efforts led by Green Cross Australia’s US affiliate Global
Green USA in New Orleans as well as initiatives
underway in Greensburg Kansas.
The mayor of Greensburg recently visited Flowerdale in

the heart of Black Saturday’s devastation to inspire the
local community towards a rebuilding effort that would
sustain communities and the local environment into the
new millennium.
2
Message from the Premier in “Victorian Climate Change Green Paper”,
http://www.climatechange.vic.gov.au/Greenhouse/wcmn302.nsf/LinkView/6ACBE39EE7399824CA2575BD0009317BBBA69776
518142B6CA2575C400224496
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BIBG partnership aims

BIBG aims to catalyse take-up of sustainable technologies and practices in bushfire affected areas. We
will build a green building hub in Flowerdale where strong community leadership exists. We will provide
the tools, information and community engagement to enable people across all 78 bushfire affected
towns to build more sustainable homes – homes that are energy and water efficient, use sustainable
building design and materials and provide a safe, comfortable and healthy living space for families. We
will work with the Green Building Council of Australia and emerging small and medium sized green
suppliers in the region to catalyse green jobs and commercial investments which showcase new
technologies and cutting edge sustainable design and materials. We also aim to involve many hundreds
of volunteers from Australia’s national building industry in our sustainable reconstruction efforts.
By adopting web-based platforms and intensive localised efforts, BIBG will spark widespread
engagement in sustainable building across the bushfire affected areas and outside of Victoria, and will
heighten public awareness of household greenhouse emissions and cost effective strategies to reduce
these especially in the aftermath of natural disasters when new technologies and planning tools can be
introduced at scale.
In addition to stimulating the creation of green jobs in the immediate Victorian region, the intellectual
property developed and applied through this collaboration has high future commercialisation potential
as Australia and the world confront the challenges of adapting to a warming planet and more frequent
and intense severe weather predictions.
Flowerdale Community – A hub for regional BIBG engagement

The BIBG partnership aims to engage with all bushfire affected residents and businesses. The Flowerdale
Recovery Committee will play a central role in driving its local and region-wide outcomes. Since Black
Saturday the Flowerdale Community has been active in driving the relief and recovery process. During a
series of Community Meetings in March and a Community Workshop facilitated by CSIRO in April, the
Community has strongly endorsed the approach to build back in a safe and sustainable way.
The Community Recovery Committee (CRC) that has been established has studied the Greensburg
model and believes that a Green Planning Hub is crucial to be able to deliver on the vision to build back
green. This conviction has been strengthened since the recent visit to Flowerdale by Mayor Bob Dixson
from Greensburg, Kansas.
The CRC has also taken a lead role in coordinating with the two other
major fire affected communities of Kinglake and Marysville, which
both have a similar vision in terms of the rebuilding process and long
term sustainability of the communities. The communities also wish
to ensure that residents return and that others are engaged by the
vision and come into the community as happened in Greensburg.
The CRC also sees that the establishment of the hub will help fast
track the rebuilding process as well as be available for other Greensburg Kansas Mayor Bob Dixon and his wife Ann
communities affected by extreme weather events. It will also help meet with Flowerdale residents on July 28 2009 to
share sustainable rebuilding lessons and support.
rebuild the local economy in the Kinglake Ranges, provide local
jobs and re-establish a new tourism model based on green
communities. The Flowerdale Community has already been working with the BIBG partners led by Green
Cross Australia and is very keen to see the proposal accepted.
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The opportunity
The growing value of low emissions adaptation
The tragic consequences of Black Saturday can be seen in the context of Victorian climate change
impacts predicted by scientists. According to CSIRO3:
 Victoria is likely to experience an increased bush fire risk and to have more 'extreme' fire danger
days, an increase of 12-38% by 2020 and 20-135% by 2050.
 More frequent and severe droughts, with a greater fire risk, are likely.
 Increases in extreme storm events are expected to cause more flash flooding affecting industry
and infrastructure, including water, sewerage and stormwater, transport and communications,
and may challenge emergency services.
 In coastal areas infrastructure is vulnerable to sea level rise and inundation.
The global evidence of increasing severe weather events is compelling particularly to the reinsurance
sector which financially manages global
risk.
The IPCC’s predictions about Australia are

sobering: “The climate of the 21st century
is virtually certain to be warmer, with
changes in extreme events. Heatwaves
and fires are virtually certain to increase
in intensity and frequency (high
confidence). Floods, landslides, droughts
and storm surges are very likely to
become more frequent and intense, and
snow and frost are very likely to become
less frequent (high confidence). Large
areas of mainland Australia...are likely to
have less soil moisture (medium
confidence).”4
Australia is predicted to confront the

challenges of adapting to and rebuilding from more intense severe weather events as atmospheric and
ocean temperatures continue to warm. As we recover from these events the opportunity to mitigate
future emissions will become more attractive as the price of carbon rises to match its underlying cost.
The intellectual property associated with sustainable recovery will become more valuable as we
confront future adaptation cycles. As the price of carbon grows, this IP will increase in value.
The BIBG partnership aims to demonstrate its catalysing potential in Victoria to showcase the ability for
community/business partnerships to deliver emissions cuts, green jobs and a lasting values shift towards
sustainable futures. Intellectual property derived from this focus will have lasting value as impacts grow.
3
Source: Department of Climate Change Fact Sheets, CSIRO, http://www.climatechange.gov.au/impacts/publications/fs-
vic.html
4
Source: see page 509 of this report http://www.ipcc.ch/pdf/assessment-report/ar4/wg2/ar4-wg2-chapter11.pdf
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Building eco-resilience into post-disaster recovery efforts

Australians who live in areas exposed to natural hazards will confront on-going risks and therefore
require support in achieving resilient household and community infrastructure, consistent with
emerging planning guidelines which reflect emerging climate risk knowledge. Insurance Australia Group
analysis5 in the Table below highlights the resulting change in damage/loss associated with changing
hazards including a 1 degree increase in mean summer temperature.
Some of the disproportionate changes in extremes in comparison with changes in averages
To address hazard risks the Victorian Government has introduced tougher building standards for homes,
targeting high bushfire risk areas, to help save lives and property. Timber will no longer be allowed in
areas at risk. In the most extreme fire risk areas, measures required for new homes will include a
concrete slab, brick veneer or concrete external wall, and non-combustible roofs, verandas and decks,
and other measures.
While brick, concrete and tile building products are non-combustible materials, these materials
traditionally have high embodied energy (high energy use during manufacture) and therefore higher
associated greenhouse gas emissions. For example, an average house uses 10,000 bricks with an
associated CO2 cost of 6 to 8 tonnes9.
The challenge for BIBG is to advance resilient outcomes which minimise environmental impacts. Our
partners will do this with support of the CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship by highlighting an eco-
resilient basket of technologies, materials and practices which offer both endurance and environmental
benefits. Practical examples include:
 Advanced glazing (the Victorian government supported Veridian Glass advanced glazing
manufacturing facility at Dandenong is ideally poised to advance triple glazing and other
solutions which enhance bushfire resilience and energy efficiency)
 Natural earth bricks have virtually no embodied energy, and a very high (12 hour) fire rating. For
another innovative type of brick, with low embodied energy, eco-cement is added to clay and
gravel. The composite mix is then fed into a brick press and naturally air dried to produce a
strong, fire resistant, and durable brick, resulting in a saving of 4 to 6 tonnes of CO2 for each
house. Eco-cement produces 30% less CO2 emissions during the manufacturing process than
conventional cements9.
5
The Impact of Climate Change on Insurance against Catastrophes by Tony Coleman – Chief Risk Officer & Group Actuary,
Insurance Australia Group. More detail and references are found in Mills et al, (2001) page 72.
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Pathways to green jobs – creating sustainable economies for Victorian

communities
BIBG partner, Australian Conservation Foundation, is a
founding member of the “Southern Cross Climate Coalition” -
formed by leading social, union, environment and research
organisation to help lead an effective and fair response to
climate change. The objective of this coalition is for all
Australian’s to “work together, constructively, to unlock the
substantial economic and job opportunities in tackling climate
change and moving to a clean, safe economy”.
Build it Back Green partners share this vision and believe that from the ashes of a tragic, climate related
natural disaster, the opportunity to build a thriving community and economy, driven by new green skills
is real.
Our partners are on the frontline of the Australian green jobs agenda. The ETUVIC has established a
pioneering training and accreditation program to encourage their electrician members to develop green
skills of the future. BIBG will provide focused resources to support a significant proportion of ETUVIC
members affected by the bushfires to participate in a green economic revival in their own communities.
ETUVIC, led by Secretary Dean Mighell, has a powerful media presence, including regular commentary
including on 3AW in Melbourne. Dean is committed to delivering the message of hope and green jobs,
coming out of BIBG, across Victoria and beyond.
BIBG looks forward to engaging with a range of union and trades groups to encourage practical
participation of their members in our community talks program and web content. We expect that above
and beyond the direct jobs and job placements created by this initiative, many spin off green
employment opportunities will result. In New Orleans, GCA US affiliate, Global Green USA regularly
involves green plumbers, builders, designers and landscapers in BIBG activities.
BIBG’s job services partner, CVGT, has an established track record in the green jobs area. Over recent
years CVGT has been one of two Victorian accredited Green Corps providers. Just this week we are
delighted that CVGT has been selected to be a Victorian provider under the new National Green Jobs
Corps. Because CVGT has a strong footprint in the bushfire affected region, with 20 offices on the
ground in the area, they are well placed to leverage their substantial resources towards the green
training, work experience and apprentice positions that are described in on page 34 of this report.
The BIBG initiative will achieve tangible sustainable rebuilding and environmental outcomes and
contribute significantly to the economic recovery of the bushfire affected regions. The jobs, work
experience, apprenticeships and training delivered by BIBG partners will improve the conservation,
protection and rejuvenation of the magnificent natural environment of the region.
http://www.acfonline.org.au/uploads/res/Working_together
_A4printWeb_s.pdf
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Victorian household emissions: large and growing

Australia has 0.32% of the global population and contributes 1.43% of the world’s carbon emissions –
4.5 times the global average 3. According to the Green Building Council of Australia, residential buildings
are responsible for 13% of the nation’s green house emissions.6 According to ABARE, during 2004-05
21% of Victoria's final energy was used in the residential energy sector. A further 42% was used in the
transport sector. 7
Source: ABARE, Energy in Australia, 2006 (Table F)
According to Sustainability Victoria, “Energy use in the residential sector is predicted to grow by 53% by
2029-30” and is driven by “the trend of increased appliance use and appliances which use 'standby'
power.”8
Sustainability Victoria further

stresses that although appliances
account for 17% of energy
consumed in Victorian homes,
they generate 40% of household
greenhouse emissions because
most appliances use electricity
rather than gas.
Residential sector energy use is

mainly in the space heating and
cooling and water heating areas.
These areas offer the potential for
significant emissions reductions.
Source: Victorian Energy Efficiency Action Statement, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006.
Victoria is recognised as a leader in tackling the challenges of climate change, and the Victorian
Government’s strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions led to the 2005 introduction of the 5Star
6
Source: http://www.gbca.org.au/uploads/138/1930/MURT%20Fact%20Sheet_010709.pdf
7
Source: http://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/www/html/1820-energy-use-by-sector-.asp
8
Source: Victorian Energy Efficiency Action Statement, Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2006:
http://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/www/html/1820-energy-use-by-sector-.asp
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standard for new homes. By 2010, within five years of introduction, 5 Star energy ratings for new homes
will deliver up to $40 million in annual energy savings, with a reduction of 600,000 tonnes of greenhouse
gas savings.9
However a 2007 study commissioned by the Department of Sustainability and Environment titled
“Options to reduce greenhouse emissions from new homes in Victoria through the building approval
process” 10 (referred to in the rest of this report as the “2007 Options Study”) reveals that emissions
from average new dwellings since the introduction of 5 Star homes are actually higher than the Victorian
housing stock as a whole.
According to 2007 Options Study author George Wilkenfeld, “The energy-related emissions of the
average new dwelling are nearly 6% higher than the average emissions of existing dwellings. The
emissions from the end uses targeted by the 5 Star requirements – heating, cooling and water heating –
are significantly lower than in existing dwellings, but these gains appear to be more than outweighed by
growth in emissions from lighting, which is not targeted by 5 Star.”11 This study did not examine
changing emissions from cooking and appliances due to lack of data - however Sustainability Victoria
points to significant emissions reduction opportunities here.
The most recent Victorian Building Commission pulse survey shows 86% of consumers value sustainable
building.12 BIBG partners will encourage bushfire affected residents to convert this value into action by
focussing intensive information and engagement activities on areas with greatest potential for emissions
savings.
The BIBG partnership believes that with the right set of tools, community resources and engagement,
communities profoundly affected by Black Saturday can achieve sustainability outcomes which
substantially exceed regulatory requirements and which can become an example for all Australians as
we adjust to a warming climate while building a new energy mix that will mitigate climate risks.
Flowerdale community leader John Burgess with Mara Bun

from Green Cross Australia and Monica Richter and Sara
Flowerdale kids can’t stop climbing trees Johnson from Australia Conservation Foundation. Visiting This is what is left of the Flowerdale
even if they were burned by the bushfire Flowerdale’s inspirational Community Village which is Kindie. BIBG partners will soon release a
sustaining over 100 residents as the community develops its proposal to support development of
plans to rebuild green. world class resilient and sustainable
community infrastructure.
9
Source: Make your home green, http://www.makeyourhomegreen.vic.gov.au
10
Source: “Options to reduce greenhouse emissions from new homes in Victoria through the building approval process for
Department of Sustainability and Environment” by George Wilkenfeld and Associates with Energy Efficient Strategies April 2007
11
Ibid, page 5.
12
Source: Building Commission Victoria, http://www.buildingcommission.com.au
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Post disaster rebuilding shines bright media spotlight with a message of hope
In the US, post disaster green rebuilding has delivered a powerful and galvanising media focus that has
spread the sustainable homes message right across America. Recent examples of high profile coverage
are provided below.
To maximise the opportunity for widespread media coverage of the BIBG effort, the proposal includes
$100,000 for dedicated PR support. The communications effort will focus on positive community stories
as well as the power of community/business/government collaboration in assisting with the recovery
from tragic circumstances.
Dean Mighell, Secretary of ETUVIC has developed a strong public profile about green jobs, including
through his regular presence on radio station 3AW. Dean looks forward to promoting BIBG.
“More than 200,000 homes were destroyed during the Category 5 hurricane. But in the years
since, the Crescent City has quietly embraced a new and unexpected role as a laboratory for green
building. The https://aus.webex.com project is an educational tool, as its model home gets dozens
of visits a week from people looking for ways to improve energy efficiency in their own homes.”
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Bushfire rebuilding - emission reduction opportunities

Potential to cut new home emissions
Black Saturday impacted on communities living predominantly in colder regions without gas reticulation.
The emissions of typically impacted homes are significantly higher than average Victorian dwellings
according to the 2007 Options Study.
Bushfire affected homes use 52% more greenhouse emissions each year, or over 21 tonnes compared to
14 tonnes for typical Victorians, most of whom live in Coastal or warmer climates and in areas where gas
is available and increasingly used for heating and warming.
Table 1 shows that the average 5Star dwelling in colder regions where gas is not available uses water
heating and ambient heating and cooling options that generate much higher emissions compared to the
average Victorian dwelling. Please note that the 2007 Options Study did not have data about appliance
energy use across regions, so regional variations are not included in the Table below.
Table 1: CO2 emissions comparison Avg VIC dwelling vs. Bushfire affected dwelling
Because of the particular
Tonnes of CO2-equivalents/year
circumstances of the region
Average Avg 5Star Dwelling, involved, the emissions intensity of
Victorian Colder region, no % a typical home being rebuilt is higher
Dwelling gas available Increase than average and can reach high
Heating and cooling 2.90 5.60 93% levels as indicated in Chart 1 below.
Water heating 1.88 5.60 198%
Appliances 5.64 5.64 0% In the absence of a concerted effort
Cooking 0.80 2.00 150%
to support residents who wish to
make sustainable choices, the
Lighting 2.31 2.50 8%
reconstruction effort has the
Common energy use (apts) 0.47 0.00 -100%
potential to deliver a large
Total 14.00 21.34 52%
household carbon footprints,
Source: Green Cross Australia analysis based on data in “2007 Options Study” particularly since achieving bushfire
using Table 43 and 44 and Figure 41.
safe outcomes can mean more
greenhouse intensive construction.
More energy savings are available in electricity-dependent areas
Lack of gas reticulation restricts consumer choice, but a range opportunities to reduce emissions remain.
Indeed, according to the 2007 Options Study, “In the coastal zone... increasing the star rating of a
dwelling from 5 to 6 will save about 0.56 t CO2-e per year where gas heating is used, but 1.27 t CO2-e
per year where gas is not available and a large proportion of heating is with electricity.”13
In other words, the potential CO2 savings available in electricity-dependent homes is more than twice
the potential for homes that use gas. The potential for reducing emissions in colder areas without gas is
50% according to the 2007 Options study (bearing in mind that savings from appliance choices other
than lighting were not quantified in this study, so BIBG has obtained additional information from
Sustainability Victoria for this purpose)14. The 5star average annual household emissions for the region
13
Ibid, page 101.
14
Ibid, Table 43 on page 103 indicates 18,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent savings are available from the weighted average of
36,000 tonnes of CO2-e produced by all Victorian detached dwellings in colder regions without gas.
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under consideration is around 21.0 tonnes CO2 equivalents compared to the lowest possible emissions
scenario of just over 10 tonnes per annum.
BIBG partners will provide
Chart 1: Total emissions for each equipment option for detached dwellings inspiration, information,
in colder areas without gas practical tools and supplier
links to support residents
who wish to make great
environmental choices.
Typical households in
bushfire affected regions
produce over 20 tonnes of
CO2-e each year, or 52%
more than the Victorian
average.
Our target over the next 24

months is to work closely
with 400 households who
Source: “2007 Options Study” Figure 41. are inspired to BIBG.
EMISSIONS REDUCTION GOAL OF BIBG: We aim help 400 participating BIBG households to achieve
maximum emissions savings – nearly 10 tonnes of CO2-e yearly compared to a typical carbon footprint
for colder areas that lack gas reticulation. This aspirational goal will be used as a motivational guide for
participating households.
Table 2: Target of 45% emissions reduction for BIBG participants
Tonnes of CO2-equivalents/year Source:
Resulting Green Cross
Avg 5Star Dwelling, Target tonnes emission, BIBG Australia analysis
Colder region, no saved using most participating % using “2007 Options
gas available efficient options home reduction Study” data in Table
44 and Figure 41,
Heating and cooling 5.60 1.94 3.66 35%
adjusted to include
Water heating 5.60 3.78 1.82 68% appliance reduction
Appliances 5.64 1.86 3.78 33% rate identified by
Cooking 2.00 0.97 1.03 48% Sustainability
Lighting 2.50 1.14 1.36 46% Victoria
Common energy use (apts) 0.00 0.00 0.00 0%
Total 21.34 9.69 11.65 45%
ATA and ACF will survey members living in colder climates for practical technology feedback, tips and
innovative sustainable products and services that can be promoted to participating households. ATA
estimates that in areas without gas reticulation, a household using a heat pump for hot water heating
would use around 30% of the energy normally used with an element-type standard electric heater.
Depending on the degree of solar input, using solar with electric boosting could reduce energy use by up
to 50% compared to standard electric systems. For ambient heating, the BIBG Partnership will support
solar heating combined with heat pump backup, noting that the effectiveness of this approach will
depend on building design and quality. Sustainable design professionals will be involved in our
community engagement.
16
Exciting new technologies will be profiled together with traditional alternatives. For example, according
to ATA the newer pellet heaters appear to use a very small amount of fuel, burn very cleanly and the
fuel is often made from agricultural waste like grain husks, sawmill waste etc, so they should definitely
be considered. By involving ATA partners such as Ecospecifier in the BIBG initiative we will simplify the
decision-making process for participating households.
The importance of saving energy on appliances

Given concerns expressed by Sustainability Victoria and others about projected increases in overall
appliance energy use15, we augmented potential savings identified in the 2007 Options Study using
other available information.
Data supplied by Sustainability Victoria is incorporated in Table 3 below allowing the average savings
rate of 33% (for appliances other than lighting) to be factored into our overall emissions savings target.
Based on this data we applied a 33% reduction target in Table 1 above to arrive at an appliance savings
target of 1.86 tonnes CO2-e per dwelling.
Table 3: Target emissions savings from appliances other than lighting
Sustainability Victoria
Business as Usual High Efficiency C02-e Savings
kWh Tonnes kWh Tonnes kWh Tonnes
Refigeration 1141 1.67 400 0.59 741 1.09
Cooking 694 1.02 694 1.02 0 0.00
TV 953 1.40 671 0.98 282 0.41
Other electronics 242 0.36 242 0.36 0 0.00
Clothes Dryer 227 0.33 0 0.00 227 0.33
Clothes Washer 64 0.09 32 0.05 32 0.05
Dishwasher 100 0.15 67 0.10 33 0.05
Misc Elec 603 0.88 603 0.88 0 0.00
Total 4024 5.90 2709 3.97 1315 1.93
Percent savings from basket of appliances considered -33%
Source: Sustainability Victoria, Doug McPherson, 13 July 2009.
BIBG will promote 5 star+ refrigeration as a crucial component of reducing greenhouse emissions for
participating households, who can save over one tonne of CO2 equivalents by opting for the most
efficient refrigeration available. We will encourage suppliers to offer deep discounts to participating
residents as well.
Global Learning Village

A separate proposal to the Jobs Fund, led by the Hume Global Learning Village, includes model housing
designs that address low income and sustainable community development needs. These designs are
supported by the Victorian Department of Housing. BIBG will leverage these designs and other
innovative community development aspects of the global learning village initiative on our website and
through BIBG community outreach programs.
15
Source: http://www.sustainability.vic.gov.au/www/html/1820-energy-use-by-sector-.asp
17
The environment for rebates and incentives

The BIBG proposal is closely aligned with existing Government water and energy incentive schemes and
rebates. ATA has compiled a comprehensive list of water and energy based incentive programs available
to Victorian residents which will be promoted through the BIBG website and the community outreach
programs envisioned by the BIBG partnership16.
These include the Victorian solar feed-in tariff; the federal insulation rebate; federal renewable
electricity rebates; Victorian solar hot water rebates; federal solar hot water rebates and RECs, the
Victorian government “Water Smart” rebate scheme; and federal rainwater tank and greywater system
rebates.
Two areas will be promoted with particular emphasis by this initiative: rebates, in the form of solar
PV, solar hot water heating, and energy efficient appliances; and incentives, such as government bulk
purchasing of solar PV, additional discounts and partnerships with Solar PV providers and
refrigeration incentives.
I. Rebates
a. Solar Energy - Victorian solar feed-in tariff and Solar Credits

The Flowerdale community has approached Federal agencies to request that the previous Solar PV
rebate be made available for bushfire affected residents. Recent Victorian legislation provides a 60c net
feed-in tariff whereby solar owners paid for the excess electricity they export to the grid. Combined with
the move towards the Solar Credits Scheme at a Federal level, payback for small scale solar systems
remain at around 15 – 20 years according to ATA17.
The Federal Government’s phased out $8,000 rebate for Solar PV systems could significantly boost solar
PV take-up given its simplicity and certainty. However BIBG is encouraged by the Federal Government’s
recently announced Solar Credit Scheme which can potentially deliver a similar level of incentives:
“Solar Credits were part of the Renewable Energy Target (RET) legislation, passed by the
Parliament on 20 August. Under the RET, electricity retailers are required to purchase Renewable
Energy Certificates, known as RECs.
“Through Solar Credits, households installing rooftop solar panels can receive five times as many
RECs for each megawatt-hour of solar energy produced by their solar panels.
For example, based on a REC price of $40, a 1.5 kilowatt solar panel system installed in Sydney
would receive $6200. Based on a REC price of $50, the same system would receive $7750.18
16
See ATA website for VIC rebates: http://www.ata.org.au/sustainability/rebates/vic-rebates and also:
http://www.ata.org.au/sustainability/rebates/federal-solar-hot-water-rebate-recs for federal solar hot water and RECS;
http://www.ata.org.au/sustainability/rebates/federal-recs-renewable-electricity for federal renewable electricity and RECS; and
http://www.ata.org.au/sustainability/rebates/federal-water-rebates for federal water rebates.
17
See ATA assessment here: http://www.ata.org.au/news/victorian-feed-in-tariff-legislation-passed-through-parliament
18
See Minister Penny Wong’s press release here: http://www.environment.gov.au/minister/wong/2009/mr20090910.html
18
b. Sustainable Water Heating (Victorian and Federal Solar hot water rebates and RECs)
“Conventional hot water systems account for around 20% of a household's greenhouse gas emissions in
Victoria” according to Sustainability Victoria which advises that installation of a solar water heater will
increase energy efficiency while saving up to 75% of household water heating costs19.
BIBG applauds the Victorian Government’s recent announcement that a popular solar hot water rebate
scheme will be extended to help regional and rural families to switch to solar hot water. Given that the
scheme was previously available for installation of solar hot water in existing as opposed to new homes,
we are particularly grateful of Environment and Climate Change Minister Gavin Jennings announcement
that “the successful scheme would now be extended and for the first time enable homeowners in
bushfire communities who lost their homes to install a gas-boosted solar hot water unit in their new
homes.”20
Under the extended scheme “the rebate for replacing non-electric systems has been reduced from a
maximum of $2300 to a maximum $1600, which is consistent with the Australian Government's rebate
for replacing electric hot water with solar”.
We are delighted that Environment Minister Peter Garrett and Parliamentary Secretary Bill Shorten also
recently opened a $1,600 solar hot water rebate especially for bushfire affected communities.
19
See VIC rebates here: http://www.resourcesmart.vic.gov.au/for_households/rebates_3096.html
20
See press release dated August 28 2009 here: http://www.resourcesmart.vic.gov.au/media_releases_4180.html
19
The Federal Government's Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) scheme also provides financial
incentives to promote renewable energy.21
Sustainable water heating is a critical input to BIBG because it offers the potential to cut emissions by
3.78 tonnes22 in colder areas without gas reticulation. However, the capital outlay can be $3,000 more,
comparing the most efficient medium sized solar-electric option with an off-peak electric hot water
heater, for example. When combined with RECs, we believe the Victorian and Federal Government
incentives are sufficient to attract strong take up within bushfire affected communities.
BIBG will encourage this because the lifecycle savings associate with solar versus electric options are
significant, and would deliver welcome and lasting economic benefits to bushfire affected residents.
Chart 2: Life cycle costs of water heating (no gas available)
21
See http://www.resourcesmart.vic.gov.au/for_households/rebates_3096.html
22
See Table 2 on page 11.
20
Source: “2007 Options Study”, Figure 23, page 64. Please note these costs are for no gas in warmer
zone regions because no figures were available for colder regions.
The greenhouse emissions savings potential of making a widespread shift towards more sustainable hot
water heating is significant, as shown on Chart 3 below.
Chart 3: Life Emissions from water heating options (no gas available)
Homes
Apartments
Source: 2007 Options Study Figure 18, page 56
c. Rebate program for energy efficient appliances

As we have shown in Table 3 (page 13) of this proposal, bushfire affected households have the potential
to save nearly 2 tonnes of C02 equivalents by opting for highly efficient appliances. Refrigeration alone
accounts for over half of this potential saving.
During June 2009 an extremely popular “Victorian Government Appliance Incentive” was offered
enabling Victorians able to save $100 off the cost of energy and water efficient washing machines and
dishwashers. The high take-up and efficient administration of this incentive by Sustainability Victoria
provides a model which can be directed towards bushfire affected households with support from
participating retailers.
This proposal recommends a “Bushfire community refrigerator incentive” of $300 for minimum 4 star
appliance purchases which could be operated by Sustainability Victoria. Assuming 400 homes take up
this incentive as part of BIBG participation, the cost would be $120,000 which we have incorporated into
this proposal.
An overview of federal and State programs that align the activities of BIBG can be found in the Appendix
section of this proposal.
21
II. Incentives
a. Bulk purchasing of Solar PV
Over the last two years, a number of bulk purchasing schemes for solar PV have been established across
Australia. These include the NT Bulk Buying Scheme, Bay Island Buying Group and the Queensland State
government Queensland Solar Homes Program (QSHP). In particular, this Queensland government
program provides a number of critical insights into improving the take up of solar PV in the community,
particularly with respect to making this green energy source a viable, low cost option for households.
Case Study of Queensland Solar Homes Program (QSHP)
The QSHP was a pilot program designed to provide a means to make solar power systems more accessible to
Queenslanders by reducing up-front costs. Following a tender process, the Government bulk purchased 1,000 1kW
solar power energy systems to make the green, renewable energy source a viable option for Queensland families.
The scheme covered installation and the complete system of solar PV panels. The Queensland Solar Homes
program was the largest of its kind in the country and was supported to a maximum of $10 million by the state
government.
This bulk purchasing scheme reduced the cost of a 1kW system from $14 500 to $9145, a saving of 37%.
Additionally, the households were able to give the Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) created by the solar
energy system to the contractor to reduce the cost even further, to $8185. Those households eligible for the
Australian Government Solar Homes and Communities Rebate of $8000 were able to further reduce this cost to a
low out of pocket expense of $185.
http://www.darwinpalmerstonpv.org/
http://www.eco-kinetics.com/queensland-solar-homes-program.html
https://www.epa.qld.gov.au/environmental_management/sustainability/energy/solar_homes_program/
The Australian Government Solar Homes and Communities Rebate is no longer available and has been
replaced by the “Solar Credits” scheme. It is anticipated that this type of bulk purchase program, in
concert with the new “Solar Credits” scheme, could be implemented in the communities affected by the
Black Saturday bushfires to assist in the delivery of low cost solar PV as part of the sustainable rebuilding
effort.
22
b. Additional discounts and partnerships with Solar PV providers
Additional incentives for solar PV uptake could be found through the creation of corporate partnerships
with the successful Solar PV contractors of the bulk purchasing scheme. These partnerships could result
in further discounts being granted for the installation of the systems, improving the community uptake.
Green Cross Australia is developing a dialogue with a number of solar providers who have already
donated materials to bushfire affected communities including Flowerdale. GCA will endeavour to create
robust corporate discounts for bushfire affected residents, who participate either by purchasing directly
or by group tenders.
c. Refrigeration incentives
As discussed previously, Green Cross Australia has been in discussion with Sustainability Victoria
regarding the possible implementation of refrigeration incentives for residents in Black Saturday
affected areas. BIBG will promote 5 star+ refrigeration, as a crucial component of reducing greenhouse
emissions for participating households, who can save over one tonne of CO2 equivalents by opting for
the most efficient refrigeration available. We will encourage suppliers to offer deep discounts to
participating residents as well.
23
Our partners and the role they will play in this collaboration
PARTNER ROLE OVERVIEW
Flowerdale  Community inspiration, Since Black Saturday the Flowerdale Community has been active in driving the relief and recovery process.
community leadership During a series of Community Meetings in March and a Community Workshop facilitated by CSIRO in April,
http://helpflowerdal the Community has strongly endorsed the approach to build back in a safe and sustainable way. The
enow.blogspot.co  Location for key core Community Recovery Committee (CRC) that has been established has studied the Greensburg Kansas post
m resources that will be shared tornado sustainable rebuilding model and believes that a Green Planning Hub is crucial to be able to deliver on
across bushfire affected the vision to build back green. This conviction has been strengthened since the recent visit to Flowerdale by
communities Mayor Bob Dixson from Greensburg, Kansas and by engagement with the Build it back green group led by
 Promote project in media Green Cross Australia.
and across social networks
Green Cross  Partnership and project Green Cross Australia is a new national NGO that works on the frontline of climate change: the human
Australia development and stakeholder dimension. We are part of a global network of 31 offices founded by Mikhail Gorbachev with a focus on
www.greencrossa engagement resilience. We anticipate and resolve conflicts over natural resources that put our environment at risk, and we
ustralia.org foster sustainable partnerships between business, government and the community that prepare communities
 Report milestones, lead for environmental impacts in Australia and overseas. This ranges from the impact of fires, floods and
evaluation environmental disasters on Australian cities to the mass displacement of populations due to rising sea levels.
 Run BIBG website
 Manage COMMS program
Australian  Develop and manage Green The Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) is committed to inspiring people to achieve a healthy
Conservation building resource centre environment for all Australians. For 40 years we have been a strong voice for the environment, promoting
Foundation solutions through research, consultation, education and partnerships. We work with the community, business
www.acfonline.org  Manage Community talks and government to protect, restore and sustain our environment. ACF’s award winning GreenHome program
program with support from helps people help the environment by making simple changes to the way we live. We currently run programs
ATA as technology partner in NSW and Victoria. ACF’s role in this project would be to provide on the ground support to the bushfire
 Lead planning effort with affected communities through the green building resource centre, the community talks as well as providing the
bridge from the community to liaison between the communities and government regulatory framework. ACF’s expertise lies in its breadth of
government policy knowledge, understanding the mechanics of government, its extensive networks, and delivery of
community outreach programs. We would run this work in close cooperation with Green Building Council and
 Feed GreenHome content
Alternative Technology Association.
into BIBG website
development
Alternative Technology partner for: ATA (Alternative Technology Association) is Australia’s leading not-for-profit organisation, promoting
Technology  Green building resource sustainable technology and practice. ATA provides services to members who are actively walking the talk in
Association centre their own homes by using good building design, conserving water and using renewable energy. With branches
and members around Australia and New Zealand, ATA provides practical information and expertise, based on
 Community talks our members’ hands-on experience. ATA also offers advice on conserving energy, building with natural
http://www.ata.or program
g.au materials, reusing, reducing the use of and recycling natural resources.
 BIBG website
Victorian Branch  Global Green Electrician The Electrical Trades Union Victorian Branch (ETUVIC) – through its green training initiative
of the Electrical Accreditation www.ggelectricians.com - provides an essential pathway towards short and longer term green jobs resulting
Trades Union from the BIBG initiative. BIBG partners will work with ETUVIC members as our green talks and green building
http://www.etu.as resource centre reaches out to families and across communities. The ETUVIC will work with ACF and ATA
n.au/ staff to provide tangible advice and practical information as part of the talks program. ETUVIC or its
representatives will regularly feature on the Green Building Resource Centre evening and weekend events.
Central Victorian  Job services provision – CVGT is a not-for-profit public company that has been a forerunner in the provision of employment and training
Group Training including work experience, programs for a quarter of a century. Their 340 staff are employed in more than 20 locations in regional Victoria,
(CVGT) training, pre-apprenticeships, as well as in Melbourne, Sydney, regional New South Wales and Tasmania.
http://www.cvgt.c apprenticeships They currently manage more than 20 state and federal government programs, placing them in a unique
om.au/ position to offer innovative, sustainable and coordinated career development pathways to members of the
 National Green Job Corps Victorian communities affected by the Black Saturday bushfires. CVGT will provide job services support to the
provider BIBG initiative by creating apprenticeships, jobs and work experience and training opportunities for members
 “Stepping into Green” training of the bushfire affected communities. Additionally, they will create a new training program, “Stepping into
Green: finding your skills path”.
24
module development
CSIRO – Climate R&D and expert support for: Since 2003 the CSIRO Climate Change Adaptation Flagship has developed a $50 million collaborative
Adaptation  Practical eco-efficient research program involving CSIRO scientists and numerous University, government and corporate partners to
Flagship technologies, practices support Australia’s efforts to adapt to the pressing challenges associated with a warming planet and climate
http://www.csiro. and materials variability. CSIRO has supported the Flowerdale Community with seminars on sustainable building and has
au/org/ClimateAd also interacted with Victorian government authorities throughout bushfire recovery to date. This initiative offers
aptationFlagship.  Expert participation in the Flagship an opportunity to build a world-first eco-resilience focus on practical community solutions.
html talks, videos, blogs
Green Building  Lead small business green Launched in 2002, the GBCA is a national, not-for-profit organisation that is committed to developing a
Council of hub to assist with rating SME sustainable property industry for Australia through market based solutions by encouraging the adoption of
Australia developments & encourage green building practices. It is uniquely supported by both industry and governments across the country. Its key
http://www.gbca. sustainable rebuilding objectives are to drive the transition of the Australian property industry towards sustainability by promoting
org.au green building programs, technologies, design practices and operations as well as the integration of green
 Volunteer drive from GBCA building initiatives into mainstream design, construction and operation of buildings.
large members to assist with
rebuilding effort on the
ground
Habitat for  Support sustainable low Habitat for Humanity has built nearly 300,000 houses around the world, providing more than 1.5 million
Humanity income rebuilding for 90 people in more than 3,000 communities with safe, decent, affordable shelter since our founding over 30 years
Australia households using sweat ago. Habitat has developed a model whereby low income households contribute 500 hours of "sweat equity" to
http://www.habitat. equity volunteer model the building of their own home, or that of another family. This will be tailored to meet the objectives of the Build
org.au it back green collaboration.
25
What are the key elements of this project?
Partnership development, reporting, evaluation: Green Cross Australia

GCA will play a “catalysing, convening, and communicating” role in this collaboration, consistent with
key Objects of its constitution: “To foster a
value shift and cultivate a new sense of global
interdependence and shared responsibility Project coordination/tracking/evaluation Green Cross
which ensures that humanity’s relationship Staffing & on-costs $ 160,000
with nature is environmentally sustainable” Partner Comms and Meetings $ 16,000
and “To facilitate, encourage and help External evaluation report and audit $ 25,000
coordinate a multi-sectoral collaboration of
groups and organizations working in common Quarterly milestone survey tracking $ 20,000
purpose to bring about an urgent and rapid Project management $ 80,000
transition to an environmentally sustainable Travel $ 10,000
“one Planet Economy”. $ 311,000
GCA’s role will be to:
1. Develop vision for collaboration including partnership opportunities, milestones, and practical
activities, building on the experiences of our US affiliate Global Green USA in New Orleans
2. Build partnership, together with Advisory Group selected in consultation with funding bodies,
including proposal development, milestones and budget
3. Build web tools and content interface and host “Build it back green” website - Webmaster
leadership role ongoing
4. Report all milestones, aggregating all elements of partnership, to all funding partners
5. Broaden network engagement with layered content and regional media outreach, and develop
engagement with ICT community to support and distribute online elements of this collaboration
6. Report all milestones, aggregating all elements of partnership and lead the evaluation process as
agreed by funding bodies. Two annual evaluations will be completed, with quarterly milestone
reporting along the way
7. Manage the communications outreach consultants hired to support this project’s ability to
engage with the wider public (this element is costed separately below)
Green planning liaison officer: Australian Conservation Foundation

This person would act as the liaison
Green Planning Liaison Officer ACF
between the community and the various
tiers of government to deliver on the Staffing & on-costs $ 153,333
community’s vision of the green plan, Travel $ 30,000
helping to facilitate practical outcomes, Comms, outreach $ 30,000
particularly regarding the development and
implementation of an integrated energy, Total $ 213,333
waste and water plan. Steering through the
different government regulations so that there is satisfactory delivery of projects including around
potential for grid connection will require the person to have high level relationship and negotiation
skills. This role is vital to lift performance sustainability potential beyond targeted CO2 emissions cuts.
26
Green building resource centre: Alternative Technology Association and

Australian Conservation Foundation
This centre will act like a shop front

providing residents from all 78 bushfire Green Building Centre ACF/ATA
affected communities with practical
Staffing & on-costs $ 114,667
advice on how to green their homes and
fit out $ 30,000
community centres.
rent $ -
It will include information on product travel $ 25,000
samples such as shower heads, energy operating (invites, events, shows) $ 125,000
efficient lighting, insulation choices, solar materials $ 59,600
hot water, solar PV, building materials, Project management $ 50,000
heating/cooling options, rain water Total $ 404,267
tanks, grey water systems, recycling and
waste options, etc as well as access to green architects, builders, plumbers, and other energy and water
efficiency experts.
The centre will be managed by the Australian Conservation Foundation and the Alternative Technology
Association in the role of technology partner. ACF and ATA will use this Flowerdale based
comprehensive information and product sample resource to enhance the sustainability dimensions of
other regional planning sites including in Kinglake and Marysville. The Flowerdale centre will be the
sustainability hub for the region, supported by a widespread community talks program outlined further
below.
It will showcase in the main small business operators. The centre will have at least one internet
connection to help residents with questions about government rebates as well as assist with additional
research as required. By working with the Green Building Council, and other relevant bodies who are
already involved in the rebuilding process, the Resource Centre can provide leading edge information on
the practical ‘how to’ of building it back green in resilient and affordable ways.
The Green Building Resource Centre will be staffed full time by a qualified Centre Manager. This Centre
will be integrated into the Flowerdale community centre where planning support and liaison with
government and other communities can be facilitated.
This photo shows an example of the Global Green USA

New Orleans Green Building Centre.
27
ATA will be the technology partner for the Green Building Centre. Elements of this include:
Advice service
ATA provides an advice service to members with their queries on sustainable building and technologies.
Advice is provided over phone, email and a walk-in service. ATA’s staff have years of experience in
providing practical advice of a general nature or specific questions relating to a person’s home.
In providing advice, ATA draws on its vast practical experience. From research into new emerging
sustainable technologies and practices, policy development with all levels of government and industry,
and the development of communication tools including Sanctuary and ReNew magazines, websites and
events, ATA’s members provide feedback on the practical application of sustainable technologies and
practices in their own homes.
As part of BIBG, ATA can provide an experienced advisor to provide support and capacity building for
local resource centre staff, to be available for one day a week at the centre and be on call for over the
phone consultations. Total time of two days a week.
Sustainable building and living materials
ATA has a range of Australia’s leading sustainable living resources that it can provide at wholesale price
for distribution to members of the Flowerdale community and other residents from the region that visit
the Green Building Centre. ATA materials available for the Centre include:
Your Home
ATA is a community member of the Your Home steering committee, an initiative of the
Australian Government and the design and construction industries. Your Home is a suite of
consumer and technical guide materials and tools developed to encourage the design,
construction or renovation of homes to be more comfortable, healthy and environmentally
sustainable.
The Your Home Technical Manual is Australia's award- winning, most comprehensive guide to
building, buying or renovating your home for a sustainable lifestyle. Your Home is the ultimate
how-to guide and contains around 380 pages of environmentally sustainable solutions for
designing and building your home
ReNew magazine subscriptions
ReNew: technology for a sustainable future is Australia’s premier magazine on practical

sustainable living. Published quarterly, ReNew features the latest in sustainable building practice
and renewable energy technology. It demonstrates the technology in action and provides
practical information for people who would like to incorporate sustainable features into their
homes. Each issue also includes a buyer’s guide that outlines what you need to know when
looking to buy a sustainable product or service including a list of available products in Australia
and their specifications.
28
Sanctuary magazine subscription
Sanctuary: sustainable living with style is Australia’s only magazine dedicated to sustainable
house design. Each quarter, Sanctuary profiles the work of Australia’s leading environmental
architects and designers, providing inspiration and practical solutions for a sustainable home,
without compromising on design. Sanctuary’s mission is to showcase the most beautiful, best
designed sustainable houses in Australia, and to show you what can be done to make your
house healthier, more comfortable, and more energy and water-efficient. Published by ATA and
supported by the Australian Government Your Home project
Water: Not Down the Drain: A guide to using rainwater and greywater at home
Water Not Down the Drain is a comprehensive guide to sustainable water use around the home.
Over 150 pages of comprehensive information and diagrams on how to save water, collect
rainwater, reuse greywater and capture stormwater. The author, Stuart McQuire, has reduced
his family’s mains water use by 96% using just two and a half buckets of mains water per day,
but still has a thriving garden full of fresh produce. Published by ATA with support by the
SmartWater Fund
Sustainability technology booklets
ATA produces a popular series of booklets on sustainable technologies such as solar hot water,
solar electricity and wind power. The booklets provide thorough but concise information on how
systems work.
Other materials
Renters Guide to Sustainability, Your Home Renovators Guide, ReNewROM CD series
29
Eco-resilience focus – CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship

CSIRO’s Climate Adaptation National
Research Flagship is developing Eco-resilience basket of tech./practices
practical and effective adaptation CSIRO
responses to the inevitable climate Research staffing & on-costs $ 120,000
change that will occur while Materials research and testing $ 80,000
mitigation efforts gradually take hold. Community outreach program incl materials $ 65,000
Travel and logistics - community talks $ 24,000
Climate change threatens the cities
and fast urbanising coasts where Project management $ 25,000
more than 90 per cent of Australia's Total $ 314,000
population lives. Storm surge and rising sea levels endanger the 711 000 addresses that lie within
three kilometres of the coast and less than six metres above sea level. Weather-related disasters are
doing increasing damage to our water, energy, transport, buildings and telecommunications
infrastructure. Bushfires rage at the urban fringe. Heat stress, vector borne and other climate related
diseases pose health risks.
The Flagship is addressing local impacts of climate change including how to:
 reduce pressure on water supplies
 manage heightened risk of bushfires at the urban fringe
 understand climate-related health risks including heat stress and vector borne diseases.
CSIRO researchers are addressing pathways to adaptation which position Australia to deal effectively
with climate change. They also are firmly focussed on developing planning, design, infrastructure and
management solutions to help communities to adapt with a changing climate.
The BIBG collaboration will help to build an innovative, practical research platform around eco-
resilient solutions that help high hazard communities to utilise technologies, materials and practices
that foster both resilient and ecologically sustainable outcomes.
Practical outcomes of the research will include a

growing basket of eco-efficiency solutions that
can be adopted by Black Saturday affected
residents and indeed other communities
confronting growing bushfire risks.
CSIRO Flagship researchers will make their

practical research outcomes accessible on the
Build it back green website including supplier
information and videos that show trade
implementation of solutions.
The BIBG initiative will ensure the ongoing viability of a current research position within CSIRO, rather
than creating a new research position. CSIRO scientists will also participate in the community outreach
program led by Australian Conservation Foundation and Alternative Technology Association to ensure
that excellent scientific outcomes are adopted in practical ways that are accessible to bushfire affected
residents.
30
Creating short and long term green trade jobs
The Electrical Trades Union ETU Global Green Electrician Accreditation

Victorian Branch (ETUVIC) – ETU
through its green training Staffing and on-costs $ -
initiative www.ggelectricians.com Training course development & delivery $ 40,000
- provides an essential pathway Training materials production $ 25,000
Marketing and communications $ 30,000
towards short and longer term
$4,000 support for 20 electricians $ 80,000
green jobs resulting from the
Project management $ 25,000
BIBG initiative. Total $ 200,000
BIBG partners will work with ETUVIC members as our green talks and green building resource centre
reaches out to families and across communities. Our program will encourage a minimum of 400
households to rebuild their homes using the energy, water and waste minimization technologies
described in “The Opportunity” section of this proposal. The positive impact on the environment will
include a targeted reduction of 10 tonnes of CO2-e emissions per household per annum compared to
business as usual.
Through this community driven effort our initiative will support Black Saturday affected communities to
create eco-resilient communities based on shared environmental values.
The ETUVIC will work with ACF and ATA staff to provide tangible advice and practical information as part
of the talks program. ETUVIC or its representatives will regularly feature on the Green Building Resource
Centre evening and weekend events.
The BIBG website will feature videos which demonstrate green

electrical experts showing householders how to reduce energy use
and monthly expenses. Examples of energy audits will be profiled and
GCE leaders will discuss how energy use can be reduced through
passive design solutions. You Tube GGE videos will guide bushfire-
affected households who are beginning to rebuild through the ever
changing and somewhat complicated process of available rebates
and/or certificates.
To enable the BIBG initiative to support sustainable rebuilding efforts

across 400 households between March 2010 and June 2011 (with
some of the actual building occurring after June 2011), ETUVIC
estimates that an additional 25 electricians will need to receive the
five day Global Green Electricians™ (GGE) accredited training course.
31
The course curriculum utilises nationally recognised Renewable Energy Units of Competence and
delivers theory and practical training in:
 the greenhouse effect, causes and consequences
 regulatory framework
 renewable & energy efficiency skills
 identifying renewable and energy efficiency measures
 developing an energy efficiency audit, inspection and assessment
 photovoltaic energy apparatus
 undertaking practical audit, inspection and assessment in energy efficiency
Course outcomes are directly aligned with requirements to deliver on BIBG milestones. Qualified GGEs
will be able to provide additional services to fire affected communities, including:
 Conducting energy audits
 Explaining what actions the customer can take to reduce their energy use and what cost and
emission savings can be achieved by taking these actions
 Offering advice on rebates and certificates for the various programs and products that exist at
state and federal government levels.
 Ensuring their work complies with the relevant regulatory framework
 Educating customers on basic renewable energy options
GGE skills and qualifications include:

 Accreditation as a Global Green Electrician (GGE)
 A Mandatory Electrical Installation Testing Certificate
 Level 1 Energy Assessor Accreditation
 Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) credits issued by the partnership TAFE’s towards a Renewable
Energy Grid Connect course
BIBG partners estimate that 5 GGE accreditations will be delivered over the project’s initial 6 month
period as a result of households gradually becoming inspired to rebuild using sustainable technologies.
GGE electricians will have more business as households begin to explore green building options once the
website and community tools are in place. Additional publicity will also attract the services of GGE’s.
An additional 15 GGE accreditations will be delivered over the last ten months as the project reaches out
to engage with the first 175 of the total 400 households participants including into 2012.
The sustainability of this initiative results partly from the on-

going traction of the BIBG website which will be continually
updated as new technologies, rebate programs and supportive
green building initiatives are introduced in Victoria. Green Cross
Australia has made BIBG one of its core longer term project
commitments in anticipation of future post disaster rebuilding
needs in Victoria and other parts of Australia. This proposal
includes the delivery of Grid Connect Design and Install for
32
Renewable Energy training in addition to accreditation with the Clean Energy Council.
The additional 25 GGE certifications delivered through the BIBG initiative will enable the project to
deliver on the target 400 sustainable home milestone as well as enhancing Victoria’s green building
sector to meet growing requirements of a carbon constrained economy.
The Global Green Electricians course is copyright owned by the Electrical Trades Union, Victorian Branch
and administered by Electrical Electronic Industry Training Ltd, (EEIT). At present EEIT and its partner
organisation, Electrical Telecommunications and Renewable Energy Contractors Ltd, (ETREC) are
pursuing Federal funding from the Workplace Innovation for Productivity Program (PPP) which, if
secured, will help subsidize electricians to complete post GGE and nationally endorsed Certificate IV
qualifications and accreditation that enable electricians to design, install and connect solar installations
to the electricity grid.
EEIT has secured funding from Skills Victoria and Energy Safe Victoria which combined totals $132,000.
This will fund 150 placements in the GGE program to be delivered in the first half of 2010 with the
purpose of demonstrating “proof of concept”. This funding is also tied to getting the GGE training and
accreditation program accredited in Victoria which is presently occurring. Proof of concept will also
assess the delivery of related employment post course completion. Two initial pilot programs of the
course were delivered in March 2009 by the training partners of EEIT and ETREC with graduates already
applying the skills taught particularly where they are with a small to medium sized electrical business.
We are confident we will be able to deliver on this funding commitment.
This proposal with BIBG, if successful will be delivered separately to both of the above mentioned
funding proposals.
33
Creating pathways to short and long term green jobs, apprenticeships, work
experience and training – CVGT (Central Victorian Group Training)
CVGT is a not-for- Job Services Provision CVGT

profit public "Stepping into green" training module development $ 140,000
company that has Production of training materials $ 45,000
been a forerunner in Project management $ 20,000
the provision of
Total $ 205,000
employment and
training programs for a quarter of a century. Their 340 staff are employed in more than 20 locations in
regional Victoria, as well as in Melbourne, Sydney, regional New South Wales and Tasmania.
They currently manage more than 20 state and federal government programs, placing them in a unique
position to offer innovative, sustainable and coordinated career development pathways to members of
the Victorian communities affected by the Black Saturday bushfires. CVGT’s aims of delivering positive
economic and social benefits to the community and being a leading provider of socially inclusive
outcomes through employment and training services align perfectly with the ‘From the Ashes - Build it
Back Green “ initiative and the Jobs fund criteria of creating local jobs for local people.
CVGT will provide job services support to the BIBG initiative by creating apprenticeships, jobs and work
experience and training opportunities for members of the bushfire affected communities. Additionally,
they will create a new training program, “Stepping into Green: finding your skills path”.
This new program will enable unemployed, underemployed and employed residents across the bushfire
affected region to learn about the various green skills, apprenticeships and work experience
opportunities that will become core to sustainable regional development. This program will fill a gap in
the current marketplace which relates to the wide array of green skill choices that can be difficult for
untrained members of the public to compare to ensure that optimal choices are made.
CVGT was recently announced as a provider of the Federal Government’s National Green Jobs Corps in
Victoria and will implement the BIBG initiative as part of this program. CVGT will recruit young people in
the 17-24 age group to participate in work experience and training projects that focus on the green jobs
of tomorrow. This will be achieved through work in the conservation, protection and rejuvenation of the
environment and work in the climate change arena. Participation on the project will promote
connections between participants and the community, provide opportunities for personal development,
team work and leadership skills and help to equip young people with the skills to find employment in
environment and climate change related industries.
The provision of the National Green Jobs Corps, by CVGT as part of BIBG, will create 9 training
positions and 1 job at CVGT in the first 6 months and 18 training positions and 2 jobs over the full 16
months of the initiative.
34
[Please note we have not included revenue associated with the jobs created at CVGT itself as the work,
experience, training, apprenticeship programs that will result as BIBG grows. CVGT will work through
its own funded business model to expand its employment base. The flow on benefit s of expanded
CVGT staffing in the region will be an additional benefit of BIBG.]
CVGT will co-ordinate a work experience program and invite all Job Services Australia providers in the
region to refer their local jobseekers who have entertained the prospect of pursuing a career in trades
such as building, conservation and land management, landscaping and/or other areas of sustainability.
Participants will all be fully supervised by a qualified CVGT Work Experience Coordinator who will also
provide relevant training for participants. This will be part of the widespread green building program as
well as the diverse array of newly emerging small business in the region.
Participants will work on building projects, landscaping activities, water management tasks or other
projects needed to realize the vision for “From the Ashes…Build it Back Green”. These projects could
potentially focus on issues and skills including: Community based transport models, Reafforestation,
Sustainable retail in the food sector, sustainable landscaping and Waste management in streams. A
particular focus might be given to developing communication and editorial skills through community
newsletters and a “Stepping out Green” blog to be launched on the BIBG website.
This program will cater for 50 work experience participants and create 3 jobs at CVGT in the first 6
months and 75 work experience participants and 3 jobs at CVGT over the full 16 months.
As an accredited Registered Training Organisation, CVGT will approach the successful tenderer for the
Access Broker contract (which has not yet been announced but is due to commence 1/1/2010) and
encourage the organisation to select CVGT as a provider of a Pre-apprenticeship program. This program
will support local people to gain an Australian Apprenticeship in the priority occupation area of Building
and Construction and/or Conservation and Land Management by providing nationally recognised pre-
vocational skills training (sub-Certificate III level), employability skills, green skills, personal support and
job placement. This will provide locals with training and pathways to long term employment – another
condition of DEEWR’s Jobs Fund funding.
It is anticipated that through CVGT the BIBG initiative will deliver 10 pre-apprenticeships and 1 job at
CVGT in the first 6 months; and 20 pre-apprenticeships and 2 jobs at CVGT over the full 16 months of
the initiative.
CVGT’s model for an Australian Apprenticeship program will contribute to a further two of DEEWR’s
requirements:
 that 10% of project infrastructure will be undertaken by apprentices, trainees and those seeking
to upskill and;
 that redundant workers will be assisted to complete their indenture
CVGT will employ suitable apprentices (including apprentices who have been made redundant) and host
them out to the qualified builders and landscapers involved in the BIBG initiative under the Group
35
Training Model. This model means that, throughout the program, CVGT’s dedicated Pastoral Carers will
provide all apprentices with various levels of coaching, encouragement and mentoring – depending on
their need. Experience informs us that this additional support is critical for participant engagement and
retention. CVGT will be the apprentices’ legal employer and will undertake responsibility for
administration in the areas of WorkCover, Superannuation, Group Tax, Group Certificates, WorkCover
claims and reporting requirements to Government Departments. CVGT will also provide advice to the
BIBG Project Managers on training related matters for the apprentices.
As part of the BIBG initiative, CVGT will create 3 apprenticeships in the first 6 months and 6
apprenticeships over the full 16 months.
The Victorian communities affected by the Black Saturday bushfires face high unemployment rates.
CVGT’s involvement in the BIBG initiative will assist these currently unemployed community members to
meet the requirement of undertaking work experience for their dole payments and provide them with a
number of opportunities and pathways to green jobs.
Intrinsically, all of CVGT’s programs will provide green skills and skills in future green industries.
Participants will be involved in a major project that is committed to sustainability and one that has links
with important organizations who are committed to sustainability. All project materials, practices and
outcomes will be aligned with the most current sustainability innovations and methodologies.
Experience will be translated into a shift in thinking. Gradually, the critical importance of sustainability
and the work practices that support sustainability will be disseminated into the workplaces and the
community, which will change the way we work, the way we think and the way we live.
36
BIBG website – Green Cross Australia

GCA will develop and regularly update
Build it back green website Green Cross a rich media web resource modelled
user interface design and testing $ 10,000 on Global Green USA’s New Orleans
Product database devp and updating $ 50,000 site which has been very successful in
Web design and build $ 30,000 stimulating interest and connecting
bandwidth + maintenance $ 10,000 residents with local suppliers23,
Site upgrades and new modules $ 30,000 helping to create green jobs along the
way. Particular attention will be paid
Total $ 130,000
to facilitating choices which deliver
bushfire safe outcomes. Green Cross Australia is a close partner of the CSIRO Climate Adaptation
Flagship which has also been working with the Flowerdale community to raise awareness of new
technologies and practices that enhance safety and sustainability.
Key features of website functionality include:

 Q&A led user interface that guides residents through
a sustainable building journey, designed to assist at
various stages of rebuilding
 Trade videos produced to assist residents to picture
the process involved as well as the finished outcome
 Tips sheets and product guides to guide residents
through a comprehensive vendor directory once
choices are refined
 Downloadable Green Vendor Directory including
hundreds of Victorian merchants in the near vicinity
listed by product type and will offer national
alternatives when no local merchants are available.
 Work experience led community blogging, video
sharing, and facebook/twitter application links to
foster community participation.
 Information about the Green Building Centre and
community talks program, as well as partner
activities such as Habitat for Humanity corporate
volunteering opportunities linked into Green
Building Council of Australia membership base.
 Information about placement into green jobs,
ETUVIC’s Global Green Electrician accreditation,
CVGT’s training program “Stepping into Green” and
their National Green Jobs Corps program.
23
For example of Green Vendor List product categories used for New Orleans BIBG website please see Appendix I.
37
The BIBG website will leverage information from the ACF Green Home program, ATA’s resource
database, and the GBCA’s commercial partners. Funding will be made available for partners to assist in
creating a scalable, comprehensive resource that draws on existing intellectual property. We will work
with the Insurance Council of Australia to take advantage of product information and purchasing
resources especially in relation to energy efficient appliances and vehicles.
Green Cross Australia will ensure that the BIBG website includes easy to navigate links to freely
available, independent tools and resources. For example we will profile the Green Electricity Watch
website developed by ACF, WWF and The Total Environment Centre which helps consumers to evaluate
Green Power products (http://www.greenelectricitywatch.org.au ).
We will make it easy for households to switch to Green Power using the CHOICE switching website
(http://www.choiceswitch.com.au ).
Green Cross Australia’ staff, Directors and Advisory Panel members have highly developed social
networking and rich media capabilities. Green Cross Australia was recently awarded an “Outstanding
Achievement” award by the world’s leading interactive media association; the NYC based Interactive
Media Council. A judging panel including CEOs of the Screen Producers Guild of America, CBS Radio
Digital and OgilvyOne awarded Green Cross Australia’s www.extremeweatherheroes.org with one of
two international awards for excellence in social networking and content development.
38
Green building community talks - Alternative Technology Association and

Australian Conservation Foundation
“People do not respond in a sustainable way Green Building Talks Program ACF/ATA
if they do not participate in their own future, Staffing & on-costs $ 125,667
in their own destiny” Gil Brenson-Lazan. Travel $ 5,000
Comm, outreach $ 5,000
“Any person, any couple, any community has materials $ 40,000
the answer to their problem within their own
Project management $ 34,000
system.” Milton Erikson
Total $ 209,667
We know that Australia has high greenhouse
gas emissions per capita. This presents two significant challenges for Australian communities. First, in
order to meet global community obligations in reducing fossil fuel use these current high emissions
must be reduced significantly. Second, high energy users are more vulnerable to a future where
greenhouse gas emissions will have a high cost. In order to build resilience, Australian communities can
anticipate and adapt to climate change. An emerging solution here is the concept of carbon neutral
communities.
Carbon neutral communities refer to the contribution of a ‘community’ to reducing greenhouse gas
emissions. This of course does not exclude the contribution of an individual, but includes the role of
individuals as a member of, and the community as a whole.
Of course, there is a challenge in creating a boundary around what conditions or more specifically,
‘greenhouse gas emissions’ you will target. For example, will you target ‘physical’ boundaries such as,
raw materials for building, transport, marketing of home, or the extended life cycle analysis which would
include the energy supply, the heating and cooling requirements, lighting, hot water and other appliance
needs? None of the above addresses how the ‘materials’ or the ‘technology’ will be used. The BIBG
project and the community talks have the opportunity to address all of these significant components.
For the past three years GreenHome and Environment Victoria have partnered to deliver sustainability
programs in regional Victoria, funded by the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE). Prior
to delivery in any area we initiate a substantial scoping phase that aims to identify and engage the
community prior to delivery. This ensures that key stakeholders are identified from the outset, that our
programs are designed in collaboration with the community, are regionally relevant and that community
capacity is developed.
The community talks program aims to address technical solutions and will offer the opportunity to
connect likeminded residents and local businesses towards a shared vision. However, it is important to
acknowledge at the outset what these communities have experienced and how that informs the design
of any community engagement program.
Whilst a key driver for this program is the opportunity to (re)build a ‘sustainable community’, it is vital
that the community themselves are part of the solution. To this end GreenHome, along with ATA will
facilitate a program that works in close partnership with the community, delivering community talks
that provide technical expertise and solutions required for this (re) building effort, but that also have a
strong focus on community engagement and sustainability to support lasting resilience and transition.
39
A ‘local’ Project Officer will manage the design and implementation of BIBG Talks. This will enable on
the ground liaison and planning and improved ability to respond to emerging community needs. The
design of these talks will rely heavily on the technical expertise of ATA and all programs will draw on the
extensive facilitation and response experience or the GreenHome Program. The Project Officer will
support the delivery of BIBG talks program across fire affected areas. This position will be the key local
contact for the program, and support both organisations program staff in organising activities and
events, liaising with local stakeholders, and promoting the program to the community. Key tasks will be:
 Act as the local BIBG representative, handling local enquiries and communication needs
 Research local issues, resources, activities and places of interest to the programs
 Liaise with local partners and stakeholders and Support local promotion and media
 Manage participant recruitment, engagement and recruitment for program activities
 Coordinate local logistics aspects of program activities
 Closely liaise with ACF& ATA Melbourne based program staff
 Coordinate local business support and seek sponsorships where appropriate
 Oversee local project budgets and expenditure
 Assist in the program evaluation and project reporting and assist with program administration
40
ATA will support the GreenHome Project Officer to enhance the talks program. Over the past three
years, ATA has developed a series of sustainability presentations and seminars for various organisations
and interested parties including local governments, businesses, community organisations and
neighbourhood groups and sustainability festivals, home shows and related events. ATA presentations
and seminars have focused on a wide range of sustainability themes including:
 Passive solar design
 Household energy efficiency (lighting, heating & cooling, appliances)
 Solar photovoltaic technology and policy
 Solar hot water systems
 GreenPower
 Household water efficiency (technology, appliances and behaviour)
 Greywater systems and their domestic use
 Household waste management
In delivering and obtaining feedback on these types of presentations previously, ATA has found that the
most effective approach involves interaction between presenters and participants, with the ability for
participants to ‘touch and feel’ many of the related products and technologies. ATA will employ a staff
member for one day a week to support the Project Officer in coordinating talks including arranging
specialist speakers, developing specific presentation materials and sample products.
These photos are of Flowerdale’s Community Village which was built with community elbow grease and
generous corporate support. The village includes rainwater tanks, water reducing shower roses, four
star fridges and solar hot water systems. Fortescue Metals Group provided the transportable quarters.
The business community was exceptionally generous with support for this Village. The group kitchen
includes energy efficient stoves and fridges donated by Bosch and the kitchens were donated by Ikea.
The community lounge room has a bank of donated Microsoft X-Box machines. Rotary clubs helped to
build the Rotunda, and the big shed was donated by Blue Scope Steel.
Other companies whose assistance made the Flowerdale Community Village possible are: Leighton,
Deloitte, Telstra, Toll, Linfox and Aggreko. A big thanks goes to them all.
41
Sustainable building support for low income bushfire victims – Habitat for
Humanity Australia
Habitat for Humanity has been a leader Low income rebuilding support Habitat for Hum.
in rebuilding homes and lives in other Project Management $ 80,000
disaster ravaged communities around Travel $ 20,000
the world. Comm, outreach $ 50,000
For example, following Hurricane $30,000 for 30 homes $ 900,000
Katrina, Habitat for Humanity has built Total $ 1,050,000
1600 new homes in the USA's Gulf
Coast Region. In our own region of the planet, Habitat for Humanity has helped provide housing
solutions to over 25,000 families left homeless by the Boxing Day Tsunami. Global Green USA and
Habitat have been collaborating to support sustainable affordable housing outcomes in New Orleans
since 1995.
 January 2007 Global Green begins outreach to all hurricane-impacted affiliates of Habitat for
Humanity to provide education on green affordable housing throughout the region.
 November 2006 Global Green begins assisting New Orleans affiliate of Habitat for Humanity in
construction of low-income housing in the city
 October 2006 Global Green begins monthly green building workshops at Resource Centre in
partnership with AIA-New Orleans, and begins monthly newsletter including Habitat for Humanity
activities, dedicated to green building in New Orleans
 Fall 2006 State Louisiana Housing Finance Authority adopts green building criteria in low-income
housing tax credit allocation process
 December 2005 Global Greens Senior Program Associate Ted Bardacke attends Habitat for
Humanity’s Construction Symposium in Atlanta as part of its Operation Home Delivery efforts.
 September 26 2005 Global Green invited to participate in weekly U.S. Department of Energy call
to coordinate activities and share information with USGBC, HUD, FEMA, NAHB, Habitat for
Humanity, Federation of American Scientists, Alliance for Affordable Energy, Enterprise
Foundation, LSU and Tex as A&M.
 September 6 2005 Global Green USA begins weekly dialogues with Healthy Building Network,
Enterprise Foundation, Habitat for Humanity and National Council of Churches to explore ways to
rebuild New Orleans and the Gulf region with green building principles that Global Green has
pioneered for afford able housing and schools for more than a decade.
Green Cross Australia aims to build on this established partnership by supporting Habitat for Humanity’s
aim to leverage a wealth of global experience to serve, support, rebuild and restore hope to the families
and communities affected by the Victorian bushfires with a focus on affordable housing using a “sweat
equity” model.
42
Habitat for Humanity Victoria has launched “A Brush with Kindness” where teams of Habitat volunteers
working in fire-affected communities repaint and rejuvenate homes and community infrastructure that
has survived the flames. Two houses have been offered for families displaced by the bushfires and will
be refurbished by “A Brush with Kindness” teams. Additionally, two Habitat Community Tool Libraries –
each consisting of a 20 foot shipping container, fitted with timber racking and shelves and filled with
tools – have been placed in the bushfire-affected areas as an immediate assistance measure of
community support.
Habitat’s contribution
to “BIBG” forms a
basis for its longer
term efforts in
bushfire affected
communities. This
proposal envisions
creation of a small
coordination team
which will facilitate
the efforts of Habitat
volunteers to rebuild
a target of 90 low-
income sustainable
homes in the area.
Habitat will work with

local authorities to
identify households
who are able to
borrow but cannot
afford to rebuild their
homes without
sweat-equity support.
With up to $10,000
per home and teams
of coordinated
volunteers, Habitat
will be able to reach
this target over a 2
year period. Green
Building Council of
Australia will assist to
establish minimum
sustainability criteria underpinning this sustainable low income assistance effort, and also be developing
a volunteer hub from its large national corporate membership base.
43
Green small business rebuilding hub – Green Building Council of Australia

Under the terms of the funding
arrangement, the GBCA would be Green SME rebuilding hub GBCA
responsible for an outreach program for Advice coordination $ 10,000
local small businesses and the affected towns to discuss and apply green rebuilding practices.
The GBCA team would provide the opportunity for bushfire affected SMEs and communities to hear
from the GBCA members on green technologies and sustainable materials, when they are rebuilding
their businesses and their towns.
The GBCA would host a series of workshops whereby

GBCA members would demonstrate the benefits of their
products and services. These events would provide access
to education and guidance on sustainable building
practices. Additionally the GBCA would assist in publicising
updates and opportunities to the media, GBCA
membership and database.
The SME workshops and communications would

commence in October 2009, with events scheduled thereafter to coincide with public forums. The goal
of the program would be to provide all businesses with the information to rebuild their businesses and
communities to the highest possible environmental standards that they can afford.
Coordinated green building volunteer program – Green Building Council of

Australia
The GBCA would undertake to
coordinate a green building industry GBCA Corporate Habitat volunteering GBCA
volunteer program which would target Web portal $ 20,000
the green building industry employees,
who would volunteer their time to assist in the rebuilding of the bushfire zone.
The website would consist of a

database of volunteers and
projects. This would allow
green projects to register and
appropriately skilled
volunteers to be allocated.
The GBCA would target all its
members and affiliated
industries to assist in the
volunteer program. The aim of
this program is to provide individuals and companies the opportunity to assist on the ground, within the
bushfire regions. Many organisations have corporate social responsibility programs, and the GBCA
would assist in providing companies the opportunity to participate.
44
Communications Outreach Support – Consultant managed by Green Cross

Australia
The power of the BIBG initiative Communications outreach Green Cross
derives from its ability to both support Regional Comms outreach contractor $ 100,000
community led sustainability interest
and capture the imagination of the general Australian community.
The effective and targeted use of media will be critical to successfully and meaningfully engaging
affected individuals, the broader community and other stakeholders in the BIBG rebuilding effort and
maintaining their support throughout the process.
The Comms outreach consultant will raise community awareness of the sustainable rebuilding being
undertaken and its community impact. They will creatively leverage off BIBG partner activities to
facilitate positive media engagement with the BIBG initiative and its government and community
stakeholders. Particular attention will be paid to engaging with regional audiences, though a national
profile for the BIBG initiative will be delivered as well.
Global Green USA’s rebuilding effort in New Orleans has triggered enormous interest in green homes
across the US by adopting an excellent communications outreach program. The program has also
highlighted the benefits of effective community, government and business partnerships.
45
Business Plan and Summary of Cash Flow
The summary budget for this proposal is as follows:
Input Lead partner Cost

Project development, coordination, tracking of
milestones and outcomes Green Cross Australia $351,000
Green planning support Australian Conservation Foundation $223,333
Australian Conservation Foundation &

Green building centre Alternative Technology Association $424,267
Eco-resilience focus CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship $334,000
Build it back green website Green Cross Australia $140,000
Australian Conservation Foundation &

Green building community talks Alternative Technology Association $229,667
Sustainable building support for low income bushfire

victims Habitat for Humanity $1,090,000
Green small business rebuilding hub Green Building Council of Australia $15,000
Victorian Branch of the Electrical Trades

ETU Global Green Electrician Accreditation Union (ETUVIC) $225,000
Job Services Provision CVGT $225,000
Support for corporate volunteer pool Green Building Council of Australia $25,000
Comms outreach support to maximise BIBG wider Managed by Green Cross Australia,
community engagement interaction with BIBG partners $105,000
Total investment $ 3,387,267
(These figures are inclusive of the $220 000 of “in-kind” support – distributed across all of the partners)
46
47
48
BIBG partners are seeking funding for this initiative from four sources:
The following cash flow analysis was developed in line with Jobs Fund allocation criteria:
49
Appendix list
Overview of federal and Victorian programs that align with BIBG activities
Federal Government:
The Federal government has committed about $4 billion to a number of energy and water savings
programs including:
 low interest green loans of up to $10,000 to assist families to install solar, water, and energy
efficient products,
 up to $500 to help install rainwater tanks and greywater facilities,
 $1,600 for rebates for installation of solar or heat-pump hot water systems,
 Improving the energy efficiency of electrical appliances,
 rebates for installation of solar photovoltaic, and
 rebates of up to $1,600 to landlords, tenants and owner-occupiers to install insulation in existing
privately-owned homes, rental and other properties;
Federal National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative

As part of the $12.9 billion Water for the Future plan, the Government is delivering the $250 million
National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative to help people use water wisely in their everyday lives.
The Australian Government is providing:
 Rebates of up to $500 for households to install rainwater tanks or greywater systems.
 Grants to surf life saving clubs of up to $10,000 to install a rainwater tank or undertake a larger
water saving project.]
Federal Insulation Program

The Home Insulation Program offers ceiling insulation worth up to $1,600 to owner-occupiers,
landlords and tenants.
The program targets homes that are currently uninsulated, or have very little ceiling insulation and were
built before the mandatory thermal performance requirements under the Building Code of Australia
were introduced commencing in 2003.
If the total cost of installation is less than $1,600 there will be no more for the householder to pay. This
will be the case for most households. If the cost of the insulation is more than $1,600, the householder
will ordinarily have to pay the difference, or the full amount if they are ineligible.
The program commenced with its announcement on 3 February 2009 under a rebate scheme. From
1 July 2009 to 31 August 2009 there were separate arrangements for owner- occupiers and rental
properties. This program now covers all eligible households and is in effect from 1 September 2009 to
31 December 2011 or until the date when Program funds have been fully allocated, whichever occurs
first.
50
Victorian Government
Solar hot water rebate - Regional Victoria

There are currently four different incentives available to Victorians replacing an existing hot water
system with a solar hot water system. Each incentive has varying eligibility requirements:
 Victorian Government Solar Hot Water Rebate - Regional and Metropolitan
 Australian Government Solar Hot Water Rebate
 Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs)
 Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs); also known as the Energy Saver Incentive
The Victorian Government Regional rebate of between $400 and $1600 is available to assist regional
Victorian households to switch their existing gas hot water system or solar hot water system to solar,
and the rebate is now extended and made available for Bushfire affected residents.
A rebate is also available to applicants replacing an electric water heater who have installed ceiling
insulation under the Australian Government's Homeowner Insulation Program.
Eligible Products
You can claim a rebate on the following eligible products.
Product Description
A household rainwater tank collects rainwater for use inside or outside your
Rainwater tank and home.
rainwater tank to  $150 for a tank 600 litres or greater.
toilet connection  An additional $150 for toilet connection.
More about using rainwater tanks, permits and regulations
 $1000 for a tank 4000+ litres connected to toilet and laundry

Large rainwater  $900 for a tank 4000+ litres connected to toilet or laundry
tank  $500 for tank 2000-3999 litres connected to toilet and/or laundry
More information on water tank rebates
A greywater permanent tank system recycles waste water from laundries and
bathrooms for use on the garden or in the toilet.
Greywater systems
$500
More about using greywater and eligible non-treatment greywater systems.
A hot water recirculator saves cold water in the hot water pipes by diverting cold
Hot water water back into the hot water system or cold water plumbing. This reduces water
recirculator wastage by allowing the water to be used within the home. Systems directing the
$150 cold water to rainwater tanks or storage for outdoor use are not eligible.
Dual flush toilet

dual flush toilet uses 3 litres of water on a half flush, 6 litres on a full flush or less.
$50
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Product Description
A water efficient showerhead can use 30% less water than a normal showerhead
Three-star water and can be fitted to most showers. Up to two showerhead rebates are available
efficient per property.
showerhead $10 - rebate per showerhead costing between $30 and $100
$10 or $20 $20 - rebate per showerhead costing more than $100
Water conservation A service to assess where a household could save water, and recommend
home audits products and methods that would help to do this.
$50
More about doing a home water audit
Includes products such as mulch (includes pebbles or other inorganic materials

which are used as mulch), flow control valves, wetting/moisture agent, compost
or mulch bin, soil moisture & rain sensors, garden tap timers, drip watering
A basket of goods
system or weep hoses, trigger nozzles, temporary greywater diverters, rainwater
$30 when you
diverters, waterless car cleaning products, shower timers and toilet flush
spend $100
interrupter devices. One basket offer rebate is available per eligible customer
each year.
More about using mulch to save water
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New Orleans product category list for Green Vendor Directory

Appliances Insulation: Formaldehyde Free
binets: Formaldehyde-free MDF Insulation: Coatings
Cabinets: Wheatboard/Straw Particleboard Insulation: House Wrap
Countertops: Recycled Counter Tiles & Laminate Insulation: Radiant Barrier
Countertops: Natural Insulation: Air Leakage Control
Decking: Recycled Plastic Lumber Insulation: Flashing
Decorative: Recycled Sheet Material Insulation: Sheathing
Doors Interior Trim: Certified or Recycled Base Boards
Ductwork Interior Walls: Wheatboard
Energy: Solar Interior Walls: Natural WallCovering
Energy: Wind Interior Walls: Recycled WallCovering
Fans Lighting: Compact Florescent Lamps
Flooring: Bamboo Lighting: Energy Efficient Fixtures
Flooring: Cork Lumber: FSC Certified Wood
Flooring: Natural Fiber Lumber: Structural Engineered Lumber
Flooring: Natural Linoleum Lumber: Reclaimed/Salvaged Wood
Flooring: Natural Rubber Outdoor Surfaces: Recycled Rubber Playground Surface
Flooring: Natural Fiber or Recycled Content Carpet Outdoor Surfaces: Permeable Paving
Flooring: Recycled Floor Tile Outdoor Surfaces: Permeable Concrete
Flooring: Underlayment Plumbing: Environmentally Friendly Piping
Flooring: Raised Floor Systems Plumbing: Greywater Purification Systems
Framing: Connectors/Anchoring/Fastening Systems Plumbing: Rainwater Cistern
Framing: Structural Insulated Panels Plumbing: Hot Water Demand Return System
Framing Steel Plumbing: Solar Hot Water Heater
Framing: Precast Concrete Forms Plumbing: Tankless Hot Water Heater
Framing: Foam Panels Plumbing: Waterless/Tankless Urinals & Dual Flush/Ultra-
Low Flow Toilets
Heating and Cooling: Geothermal Systems Roofing: Green Roof Technology
Heating and Cooling: HVAC Roofing: Metal
Indoor Air Quality: Air Purification Systems Roofing: Natural
Indoor Air Quality: Mold Remediation Roofing: Recycled Rubber Roofing Shingles
Indoor Air Quality: Non Toxic Adhesives Siding: Fiber Cement
Indoor Air Quality: Non Toxic Paint Siding: FSC Certified
Insulation: Cellulose Siding: Reclaimed Wood
Insulation: Concrete Insulated Forms Tiles: Recycled Glass
Insulation: Cotton Windows: Low-E/Double Pane
Insulation: Spray Foam Windows: Shading
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ATA sustainable design and lifestyle focus

Alternative Technology Association (ATA) is a not-for-profit organisation that has been promoting
renewable energy, water conservation and sustainable buildings since 1980. ATA provides expert,
independent advice on sustainable solutions for the home to homeowners, government and industry.
With over 5000 members across Australia and New Zealand walking the talk in their own homes, ATA’s
knowledge is based on our members’ practical experience. ATA are the publishers of two leading
magazines on sustainable living ReNew: technology for a sustainable future and Sanctuary: sustainable
living with style. ATA’s expert staff provides advice and consulting services on sustainable buildings to
members and commercial organisations, and also present at forums and events across Australia.
ATA’s expertise lies in its technical and practical knowledge, communications expertise, network of
committed members and sustainable building professionals, established seminar presentations and
large knowledge base on sustainable solutions for the home. As part of the BIBG project ATA would be
able to provide expert service to bushfire affected communities as well as run, coordinate talks and
seminars and share and develop targeted communications materials on various aspects of sustainable
building.
54
ACF GreenHome Program

Australian Conservation Foundation’s GreenHome program is a pioneering environmental education
program working with the community to find individual and collective solutions to environmental issues.
GreenHome won the prestigious 2007 Banksia Award for environmental education. From tips on saving
energy and reducing waste to calculating ecological footprints, GreenHome encompasses all aspects of
sustainable living.
With funding from the Environment Trust (NSW) GreenHome began in 2005. This pilot helped secure
further funding from the Sustainability Fund (VIC) to deliver a four year program in partnership with the
Department of Environment and Sustainability (DSE). Since inception, a team of seven staff in two states
have worked with over 7000 workshop participants. In four years we have delivered over 40 programs in
NSW and Victoria in partnership with local governments and businesses.
GreenHome was one of first programs to work with communities directly. Focused on individual action
and sustainable lifestyle choices, it has always been a leader which has inspired many similar programs
Rigorous evaluation methods ensure that outcomes are measured. The evaluation process
demonstrates the understanding and implementation of sustainable living behaviours by participants.
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From The Ashes - Build It Back Green Business Plan

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Why and how to “Build it Back Green” (BIBG)

Objective of this proposal

Mitigation through adaptation

Similar initiatives in the United States demonstrate the

The mayor of Greensburg recently visited Flowerdale in

BIBG partnership aims

Flowerdale Community – A hub for regional BIBG engagement

The IPCC’s predictions about Australia are

Australia is predicted to confront the

Building eco-resilience into post-disaster recovery efforts

Some of the disproportionate changes in extremes in comparison with changes in averages

Pathways to green jobs – creating sustainable economies for Victorian

Victorian household emissions: large and growing

Source: ABARE, Energy in Australia, 2006 (Table F)

Sustainability Victoria further

Residential sector energy use is

Flowerdale community leader John Burgess with Mara Bun

Bushfire rebuilding - emission reduction opportunities

Our target over the next 24

The importance of saving energy on appliances

Global Learning Village

The environment for rebates and incentives

a. Solar Energy - Victorian solar feed-in tariff and Solar Credits

Source: 2007 Options Study Figure 18, page 56

c. Rebate program for energy efficient appliances

a. Bulk purchasing of Solar PV

Case Study of Queensland Solar Homes Program (QSHP)

b. Additional discounts and partnerships with Solar PV providers

PARTNER ROLE OVERVIEW

What are the key elements of this project?

Partnership development, reporting, evaluation: Green Cross Australia

Green planning liaison officer: Australian Conservation Foundation

Green building resource centre: Alternative Technology Association and

This centre will act like a shop front

This photo shows an example of the Global Green USA

Sustainable building and living materials

ReNew magazine subscriptions

ReNew: technology for a sustainable future is Australia’s premier magazine on practical

Sanctuary magazine subscription

Sustainability technology booklets

Renters Guide to Sustainability, Your Home Renovators Guide, ReNewROM CD series

Eco-resilience focus – CSIRO Climate Adaptation Flagship

Practical outcomes of the research will include a

CSIRO Flagship researchers will make their

Creating short and long term green trade jobs

The Electrical Trades Union ETU Global Green Electrician Accreditation

The BIBG website will feature videos which demonstrate green

To enable the BIBG initiative to support sustainable rebuilding efforts

GGE skills and qualifications include:

The sustainability of this initiative results partly from the on-

CVGT is a not-for- Job Services Provision CVGT

BIBG website – Green Cross Australia

Key features of website functionality include:

Green building community talks - Alternative Technology Association and

Habitat will work with

Green small business rebuilding hub – Green Building Council of Australia

The GBCA would host a series of workshops whereby

The SME workshops and communications would

Coordinated green building volunteer program – Green Building Council of

The website would consist of a

Communications Outreach Support – Consultant managed by Green Cross

Business Plan and Summary of Cash Flow