The Australian Institute of Refrigeration, Air Conditioning and Heating (AIRAH) is Australia’s peak body for professionals working in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) and building services industry. This covers all aspects of the sector, from the TAFE apprentice onsite through to university-educated engineers and business leaders; from those involved in manufacturing and importing equipment, to those who maintain and service it.

AIRAH’s overarching perspective – and reach to more than 25,000 industry participants – positions the Institute well to develop and promote the most efficient, productive and resilient HVAC&R industry for Australia’s future. We are a long-standing and respected voice. Established in 1920, we have represented the industry for more than 100 years. We have a solid track record of providing expert input for government consultations.

The 21st century imperatives of emissions reduction and energy productivity present our nation with significant challenges and opportunities. More recently, health has also been a focus, as we deal not just with the pandemic, but also issues such as smoke from bushfires, and the impacts of extreme weather events. Stakeholders from the built environment and HVAC&R sector have a key role to play in meeting these challenges and providing a healthy, low-emissions environment.

AIRAH is keen to work with all levels of government to improve the environmental performance of existing and new HVAC&R systems – and the built environment in general. It has been heartening to see the Albanese government’s willingness to consult industry and work together on our urgent challenges. In working with you, we will continue to highlight the vital role the HVAC&R building services industry has in the wider economy, as well as the role the industry can play in helping Australia achieve its environmental aspirations and international, national and local commitments.

This paper sets out AIRAH Budget recommendations on the three key strategic topic areas that the Institute is focused on, namely:

• Transition to a net zero future
• Professionalism and safety
• Resilience