Government Rebates for Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Australian homeowners can access federal STCs plus state-specific rebates worth $500–$2,000+. Here's how the schemes work and how to claim them.

Federal STCs explained
State rebate guide
Stackable incentives
No hidden fees

Government Rebates for Heat Pump Hot Water

Australian homeowners can claim federal STCs plus state-specific incentives — often stacked together for maximum savings.

State-by-State Rebate Overview

State / TerritorySchemeSTC Est.State Rebate
NSWNew South WalesEnergy Savings Certificates (ESC)$700$600–$900
VICVictoriaSolar Victoria Rebate$650$1000–$1000
QLDQueenslandQueensland Climate Smart Rebate$800$300–$400
SASouth AustraliaREPS (Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme)$700$1000–$1300
WAWestern AustraliaWA State Energy Rebate$700$1000–$1000
TASTasmaniaEnergy Saver Loan Scheme$500$300–$500
ACTACTSustainable Household Scheme$600Loan up to $15,000
NTNorthern TerritorySmart Energy Grant$900$2500–$5000

Rebate amounts are indicative estimates only. Values change with STC spot prices and program availability. Always verify current rebate eligibility directly with your installer or the relevant government authority.

How a Heat Pump Hot Water System Works

Unlike a resistive electric heater that converts electricity directly to heat, a heat pump moves heat — making it 3–4× more efficient.

1

Air Intake

The heat pump draws in ambient air from the surroundings — even in cool weather, air contains useful heat energy.

2

Heat Extraction

Refrigerant in the evaporator coil absorbs heat from the air, turning from liquid to gas in the process.

3

Compression

A compressor raises the refrigerant temperature significantly — the same principle used in reverse-cycle air conditioning.

4

Water Heating

The hot refrigerant transfers its heat to the water in the storage tank, then cools and returns to start the cycle again.

The Efficiency Advantage

A conventional electric storage system uses 1 kWh of electricity to produce 1 kWh of heat (COP = 1.0). A quality heat pump produces 3–4 kWh of heat per kWh of electricity (COP = 3.0–4.0+). For a typical Australian household, this translates to annual hot water bill savings of $400–$1,200 compared to electric storage — with no change to comfort or convenience.

Heat Pump Hot Water System Price Guide

Prices below are indicative ranges for supply and installation across Australia. Actual quotes will vary by brand, location, installation complexity, and available rebates.

System TypeSupplyInstallTotal (before rebates)
Entry-level all-in-one (200L)$1,500–$2,000$600–$1,000$2,100–$3,000
Mid-range all-in-one (270L)$2,000–$2,800$700–$1,200$2,700–$4,000
Premium all-in-one (315L)$2,800–$3,800$800–$1,400$3,600–$5,200
Split system (270L+)$3,000–$4,500$1,000–$1,800$4,000–$6,300
Commercial (500L+)$5,000–$15,000+$1,500–$4,000+$6,500–$19,000+
Federal STCs

$400–$900

Applied upfront by your installer — reduces the sticker price before you pay.

State Rebates

$300–$1,300+

Varies by state — NSW, VIC, SA, WA, ACT, and NT all have active programs.

Net Cost

$1,000–$3,500

Typical out-of-pocket after combining federal and state incentives.

All prices are indicative and based on typical market rates. Actual costs vary by brand, system size, installation complexity, and location. Rebate amounts are estimates only and subject to change. Always obtain at least two written quotes and confirm current rebate eligibility with your installer.

Get Free Quotes from Local Accredited Installers

We match you with CEC-accredited installers near you. 100% free, no obligation.

Get Your Free Quote

Connect with a local CEC-accredited installer who will assess your home, confirm your eligible rebates, and provide a no-obligation installation quote.

No-obligation quote

Free assessment with zero pressure to purchase.

CEC-accredited installers

All installers are Clean Energy Council accredited — required for STC eligibility.

Rebates handled for you

Your installer will manage the federal STC and state rebate process.

Same-day installation available

Most heat pump installations are completed within a single day.

CEC-accredited heat pump installer

Local CEC-accredited professionals

Verified, insured, and experienced with heat pump installs

Your Details

No spam — we only share your details with one installer in your area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions answered by our team.

The main federal incentive is the Small-scale Technology Certificate (STC) scheme administered by the Clean Energy Regulator. STCs are created when you install an eligible system and are typically assigned to your installer in exchange for an upfront discount. Many states also run additional rebate schemes on top of STCs.

Ready to Get Your Free Heat Pump Quotes?

We match you with CEC-accredited installers near you. Compare quotes and claim all available rebates.

CEC-accredited installers only
Compare 3+ local quotes
No-obligation, 100% free