Transitioning to LPG: What Victorian Homeowners Need to Know

As Melbourne’s outer suburbs continue to expand, many new homeowners are discovering a significant change: natural gas connections are no longer available for most new homes.

The Victorian Government’s policy shift towards electrification aims to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability, but it has left many residents and builders searching for alternatives to traditional gas appliances.

What most people don’t realise is that LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) remains a viable, flexible, and cost-effective option for cooking, heating, and hot water—even as natural gas is being phased out. If you’re building or buying in these growth corridors, here’s what you need to know about transitioning to LPG.

Why Are Natural Gas Connections Being Phased Out?

From 1 January 2024, the Victorian Government banned new natural gas connections for homes requiring a planning permit, including new dwellings, apartments, and subdivisions. This policy is part of the state’s broader goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2045.

The move is also intended to future-proof new homes, making them more energy efficient and less reliant on fossil fuels.

Who Is Affected?

• New homes and apartment buildings that require planning permits
• Knockdown and rebuild projects that trigger new permits
• New residential subdivisions

Existing homes with current gas connections and renovations that don’t require a planning permit are not affected. Importantly, the ban does not cover LPG (bottled or reticulated), meaning it remains available as an energy source

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LPG: The Overlooked Alternative

LPG is a versatile fuel, delivered in cylinders or tanks, and used widely in Australia for heating, hot water, and cooking.

Unlike natural gas, which is piped directly to homes, LPG is stored on-site and delivered as needed.

Why Consider LPG?

• Availability: LPG can be used anywhere, regardless of access to the mains gas network—ideal for outer suburbs and regional areas.
• Flexibility: Portable and easy to store, LPG is suitable for a range of appliances and can be scaled to suit your household’s needs.
• Efficiency: LPG burns hotter than natural gas, making it highly effective for cooking and heating
• Clean Burning: It produces fewer particulates and less CO₂ than many other fossil fuels, and new developments in bioLPG promise even lower emissions in the future.

LPG vs. Going All-Electric: What’s Right for You?

Feature	LPG	All-Electric Homes
Availability	Anywhere (no mains needed)	Universal, but reliant othe n grid
Upfront Cost	Lower appliance costs, minor conversions	Potentially high (rewiring, new appliances)
Running Cost	Competitive, especially for heating	Varies (electricity prices, solar offset)
Reliability	Independent of grid, refill as needed	Dependent on grid stability
Carbon Footprint	Lower than coal, improving with bioLPG	Low if powered by renewables
Flexibility	Appliances can be moved/relocated	Fixed installations

Key Considerations:

• LPG is especially attractive if you want to avoid the high costs of switching to all-electric appliances, or if you have specific preferences for gas cooking and heating.
• All-electric homes offer the potential for lower energy bills when combined with solar panels and battery storage, but the upfront investment can be substantial

The Transition: How Easy Is It to Switch to LPG?

For Existing Homes

If you’re already using natural gas, the transition to LPG is typically straightforward. Most gas appliances can be converted to LPG by a licensed gasfitter. In rare cases where conversion isn’t possible, LPG-compatible appliances are often more affordable than their electric counterparts, and you won’t need to rewire your home.

For New Builds

Builders can install LPG systems from the outset, providing the option for gas cooking, hot water, and heating even in areas without natural gas. LPG tanks can be discreetly installed outside, and regular deliveries ensure you never run out.

What About Appliance Choice?

Most major brands offer LPG versions of popular appliances, including:

• Cooktops and ovens
• Hot water systems
• Space heaters
• Outdoor BBQs

Be sure to specify LPG compatibility when selecting appliances, and consult with your builder or a licensed gasfitter to ensure proper installation

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Environmental Impact: Is LPG a Sustainable Choice?

LPG is recognised in Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap as a partner to electrification in the journey to net-zero emissions.

Unlike natural gas, LPG can be replaced with renewable alternatives like bioLPG, which is expected to become available in Australia as soon as 2025. This means homeowners can continue using familiar appliances while reducing their carbon footprint over time.

Comparing Emissions

• LPG is a clean-burning fuel, producing less CO₂ than coal or oil-based electricity.
• The transition to bioLPG will further reduce emissions, helping Victoria meet its climate goals without forcing all homes to electrify immediately.

Practical Steps for Homeowners

If You’re Building a New Home:

• Ask your builder about LPG options early in the design process.
• Ensure your plans include space for an LPG tank and access for deliveries.
• Select appliances that are LPG-compatible for cooking, heating, and hot water.

If You’re Renovating or Upgrading:

• Check if your existing appliances can be converted to LPG.
• Consult a licensed gasfitter for an assessment and quote.
• Consider the benefits of retaining gas for certain applications, even as you add solar or other electric upgrades.

The Role of LPG in Melbourne’s Growth Corridors

As new estates rise in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, the absence of natural gas connections doesn’t mean you have to give up the benefits of gas appliances.

LPG offers a proven, flexible solution that can be tailored to your family’s needs—whether you’re passionate about gas cooking, need reliable hot water, or want efficient heating for chilly Victorian winters

With over 356,000 Victorian families already relying on LPG, and usage growing each year, it’s clear that this energy source isn’t going away any time soon. As bioLPG becomes available, the environmental credentials of LPG will only improve, making it a future-ready choice for new homeowners.

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Why Choose Jetmaster for Your LPG Transition?

At Jetmaster, we understand the challenges and opportunities facing homeowners in Victoria’s evolving energy landscape. Our team has decades of experience helping families transition to LPG, whether you’re building new, renovating, or simply exploring your options.

Here’s how we can help:

• Expert advice on LPG system design and appliance selection
• Seamless installation by licensed professionals
• Ongoing support, maintenance, and safety checks
• Access to the latest in efficient, stylish LPG appliances

We’re committed to making your transition smooth, cost-effective, and tailored to your lifestyle. Don’t let the end of natural gas connections limit your choices—LPG keeps your options open.

If you’re building or buying in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, or simply want to future-proof your home, LPG is a smart, sustainable, and affordable choice. Contact Jetmaster today to discuss your needs, book a consultation, or get a quote. Our experts are ready to guide you every step of the way, so you can enjoy the comfort and convenience of gas, wherever you live.

Common Concerns about LPG

Will LPG Be Phased Out Too?

There are currently no plans to phase out LPG in Victoria. The government’s focus is on reducing reliance on reticulated natural gas, not bottled LPG. In fact, LPG is expected to play a complementary role alongside electrification, especially in areas where grid upgrades may lag behind housing growth.

Is It Safe?

LPG is widely used across Australia and, when installed and maintained by licensed professionals, is very safe. As with any fuel, proper storage and handling are essential. Modern safety features and regular inspections help ensure peace of mind.

What About Running Out?

LPG suppliers offer regular delivery schedules, and many tanks include monitoring systems to alert you when a refill is needed. For smaller bottles (like those used for BBQs), replacements are available at local service stations and hardware stores.

How Does Cost Compare?

• Upfront: LPG appliances often cost less than electric models, and installation is typically less invasive than rewiring for all-electric systems.
• Ongoing: Running costs depend on usage patterns and LPG prices, but many families find LPG competitive, especially for heating and cooking.
• Maintenance: LPG systems are straightforward to maintain, with most service needs handled during regular deliveries or scheduled checks.