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Are you a sustainable business, but aren’t sure how to communicate that to your customers?

The latest research tells us that Australians still prioritise sustainability in the products and services they consume, and even which companies they’d prefer to work for.

But, the perception of the language around sustainability has changed and people are losing trust in vague and outdated terminology.

To access all the insights, we encourage you to access the full report by South Pole climate company, for free here:

https://www.southpole.com/news/australians-want-sustainable-products-but–jargon-creates-confusion

Borrow An Energy Kit From Your Local Library

Choose Your Council Below:

– Knox City Council More Energy and Water Saver Kits for loan

– Boorondara Save energy in your home

– Glen Eira Go renewable and electrify your home

– Monash Home Energy Efficiency Kit

– Manningham Energy Saver Kit

– Maroondah My Energy and Water Saver Kit

– City of Casey Sustainable initiatives

– Shire of Yarra Ranges My Energy and Water Saver Kit

Navigating Refurbishment Discussions with you Landlord

To secure landlord contributions towards refurbishment costs, the key is presenting a well-thought-out works program that enhances the Capitalisation Rate—the multiplier that drives asset value.

In your proposal, focus on how strategic capital improvements can directly elevate the property’s worth, such as:

Expanding parking facilities around the asset
Activating underused spaces (corridors, lobbies) to generate income
Implementing energy-efficient upgrades like solar panels or battery storage
Introducing market-leading features that differentiate the building from competitors
Preserving future development flexibility without overcapitalising
Maintaining high standards in presentation and upkeep

Tip: Sweeten the deal by offering a longer lease term. This aligns interests and gives landlords greater long-term security.

Business Victoria links that may be useful

Understand lease agreements | Business Victoria

Virtual advice sessions | Business Victoria

Heating and Cooling Tips

Heating and cooling are some of the biggest operating costs for hospitality businesses.

By replacing old air conditioners and heaters with more energy-efficient ones, you can use less energy and make significant savings on your energy bills.

Installing double-glazed windows can also help reduce heat loss or heat gain by almost 30% compared to single-glazed windows, so you don’t need to keep heating and cooling systems on all day.

Rebates and discounts are available to make these energy saving measures more affordable.

Source: Ways to save for hospitality businesses

Five Lesser-Known Ways to Keep Biz Energy Bills Down

For most small and medium businesses, energy costs feel like one of those “set and forget” expenses. You get the bill, pay it and move on. But here’s the thing: energy waste is often hiding in plain sight, quietly draining your bottom line.

And, with electricity prices only going up, Australian businesses quite literally can’t afford to waste power.

The good news is that you don’t need a massive budget to do something about it. These five tips are practical, proven, and can make a real dent in your 2025 energy bills.

1. Install smart meters
Smart meters don’t just track energy use—they reveal when, where, and how you’re using electricity. This insight helps you make better decisions on upgrades, maintenance, contracts, and daily operations. For a quick overview, check out Energy NSW’s smart meter info page.

2. Empower your team
The most efficient system can still waste energy if staff aren’t on board. Training your team in energy basics—like powering down devices, adjusting air-con settings, or using energy-saving modes—can deliver fast results. Add energy dashboards or challenges to boost engagement and create a culture of shared responsibility.

3. Switch to the cloud
Running local servers or outdated systems? They may be quietly driving up your power bills. Cloud platforms are not only more energy-efficient but also reduce hardware needs, cut maintenance costs, and improve reliability. Look for providers powered by renewables for an added sustainability boost.

4. Automate after-hours
Don’t pay for power no one’s using. Use timers, smart plugs, or basic automation to shut down lights, signage, and equipment outside business hours. Even enabling low-power modes overnight can lead to significant savings—especially in retail, hospitality, or office settings.

5. Tap into local support
You don’t have to tackle energy efficiency alone. Councils across Australia offer programs for small businesses—from subsidised energy audits to bulk-buy deals on LED lighting. Explore initiatives like this one to unlock savings without disrupting operations.

Source: Five lesser-known ways to keep biz energy bills down – Inside Small Business

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