Deakin University and Yarra Ranges Council are working together on a research project to learn how to support parents to reduce household energy usage.

Families in Yarra Ranges have told us that energy consumption is a major concern, particularly in households with children, which use more energy than the average household. Did you know that families with adolescent children are the highest energy consumers?

In 2023, Deakin held two in-person focus groups in the Yarra Ranges to understand parents' attitudes and experiences around household energy use. Building on this feedback, Deakin conducted a nationwide survey to gather insights on parents' views on energy usage.

The next part of this research aims to learn how to best engage families in the Yarra Ranges in household energy reduction. Yarra Ranges Council is supporting Deakin by inviting local parents to participate in this study, which will run for six weeks. Alongside data from the focus groups and survey, this information will help inform new strategies to support families in reducing household energy use.

This study has received Deakin University ethics approval (reference number: 2025/HE000028)

After recruiting our first round of parents across Yarra Ranges to participate in this six weeks study commencing July 2025. We are now opening this up to another round of parents to join them, to commit to reducing your energy usage, record your electricity meter readings three times over the six weeks and complete three questionnaires.

To express your interest in participating and be in the running to win one of four $250 gift cards being offered as an incentive, please fill out your details below.

Welcome to the following parents who have already committed to reducing their electricity and are participating in the first round of our study;

Nicole O, Montrose

David B, Chirnside Park

Paige B, Mooroolbark

Sharon H, Coldstream

Kahli R, Kilsyth

Sandra P, Yarra Ranges