The Australian government has introduced a new guide encouraging households to upgrade to smarter, connected homes as part of wider efforts to improve energy efficiency and ease pressure on the electricity grid. The guide shows how digital technologies and automation can help families manage energy use, streamline daily routines, and make the most of connected devices at home.
How Australian families can benefit from the new guide
The guide outlines how smart home automation can be used across everyday household systems. It explains how connected devices can operate automatically or be controlled remotely through smartphones or voice assistants.
A key focus is load response, which allows appliances to adjust their energy use based on demand or pricing signals.
This includes smart appliances that can run during off-peak periods to help cut electricity costs and reduce strain on the grid. For example, robot vacuum cleaners such as DEEBOT models can be scheduled to run at night.
The guide also highlights the role of smart meters and demand response systems, which provide real-time data on energy use to help families make more informed decisions, while demand response programs encourage people to shift their energy use to more efficient times.
It also includes practical resources to help households get started, including advice on installing smart devices, setting them up and integrating different systems across the home.
Government highlights savings, comfort and grid benefits
According to the government, upgrading to a smart home can bring several benefits. One of the main advantages is lower energy bills, as automated systems help optimise when and how electricity is used.
The guide also points to improved comfort, with connected devices helping households maintain more consistent indoor conditions and manage daily routines more easily. It also highlights environmental benefits, including lower emissions linked to more efficient energy use.
Safety and security are also highlighted, with smart systems offering features such as remote monitoring, alerts, and automated controls. The guide adds that smart technologies may also increase property value by making homes more appealing to future buyers.
More broadly, the government says wider adoption of smart home technology could help reduce pressure on the electricity grid by smoothing demand and improving overall system efficiency. It also says smarter homes can help families play a more active role in supporting a more flexible and resilient energy system.
