Wood Heater Removal Program
This program has recently changed. Applicants approved under the former Wood Heater Replacement Program can still submit a claim for their rebate if:
- You applied and got approval by December 4, 2023.
- You submit your rebate claim within six months of approval.
This program helps improve Canberra's air quality. It's also reducing greenhouse gas emissions from wood fuel in the ACT.
You could be eligible for a rebate of $500 to help with the costs of removing a wood heater if you are a homeowner in the ACT.
You could be eligible for a rebate of $1,250 to help with the costs of removing a wood heater if you hold a concession card including:
- Australian Government Pensioner Concession Card
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card
- Australian Government Health Care Card
About the program
Using a wood heater or open fire pollutes the air. Removing your wood heater helps reduce air pollution in the ACT.
The Wood Heater Removal Program gives you a rebate for replacing your wood heater or closing off your open fireplace permanently.
Other rebates and incentives
There are other rebates and incentives on offer to ensure you keep warm in winter.
If you hold an eligible concession card, you might qualify for an additional rebate of $2,500 and an interest-free loan up to $10,000 to install an electric energy-efficient reverse-cycle heating and cooling system through the Home Energy Support Program.
For all other ACT homeowners, you could be eligible for a $15,000 interest-free loan through the Sustainable Household Scheme to install an electric energy-efficient reverse-cycle heating and cooling system in your home.
How it works
If you're eligible, you can apply to receive a rebate to help with the cost to remove a wood heater.
To apply, submit an Application Form before you remove your wood heater.
Read the Terms and Conditions before you apply. Check the application form for details on eligibility or contact us.
An ACT Government Program Officer will be in touch to arrange a virtual inspection at your home. If you're eligible we'll send you a Rebate Claim Form.
You have 6 months from your inspection date to remove your wood heater then submit your claim form to get the rebate.
Who can take part
You can apply for either rebate under the Wood Heater Removal Program if:
- you're an ACT ratepayer
- your property is residential.
You can also apply if you are the owner of a rental property. Both you and your tenant must sign the application form.
You can apply for the $1250 rebate, If you hold an eligible concession card including:
- Australian Government Pensioner Concession Card
- Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card
- Australian Government Health Care Card
Only one rebate is available per property.
Read the terms and conditions before you apply. Check the application form for details on eligibility or contact us.
Cost
It is free to apply for the Wood Heater Removal Program.
Why it's important
We're trying to lower air pollution in Canberra to build resilience to the effects of climate change.
Wood smoke contains pollutants that can be harmful to the environment and your health.
In winter, wood heaters used for home heating create particle pollution in Canberra.
This can create a haze that reduces visibility and can cause breathing difficulty. It's a major source of air pollution in Canberra during winter.
The Wood Heater Removal Program helps the cost to remove your wood heater.
Changing to energy-efficient heating such as an electric reverse cycle heating and cooling system can save you money. It's also better for your health and the environment.
If you need to keep using your wood heater, visit Burn Right Tonight.
Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal people as traditional custodians of the ACT and recognise any other people or families with connection to the lands of the ACT and region. We acknowledge and respect their continuing culture and the contribution they make to the life of this city and this region.