Staying warm this winter: what you need to know
Summary
- A cold home is not just uncomfortable — it raises your risk of respiratory infection, high blood pressure, and falls.
- Aim to keep your main living space between 18–20°C where you can. Small, free changes (closing doors, using curtains, dressing in layers) make a real difference even if you can not afford to run heating more.
- If you are struggling with energy bills, free one-on-one support is available through the Victorian Government’s Energy Assistance Program.
- Concession card holders may be eligible for discounts on electricity and gas — including extra support if you manage a medical condition.
Why a warm home matters for your health
Keeping warm in winter is about more than comfort. The World Health Organisation recommends keeping your home between 18°C and 20°C. When a home sits below that range for long periods, health risks rise — including a higher chance of respiratory infections, changes to blood pressure, and increased risk of falls in the cold. This matters most for older people, people with disability, people managing long-term health conditions, and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds who may face extra barriers to support.
Who is most at risk?
Anyone can be affected by cold temperatures at home. But some people face higher health risks. This includes:
- Older people
- People living with a disability
- People from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds
- People managing long-term health conditions such as respiratory conditions, heart conditions, mental health conditions, or arthritis
How YourCH can help
If a cold home is affecting your health, contact us to book a doctor’s appointment. We can check how the cold is affecting you and help connect you with the right support.
Where to get help
Energy Assistance Program (Anglicare Victoria) Phone: 1800 531 741, Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm (excluding public holidays) Or fill in the online enquiry form and a team member will contact you at a time that suits you.
Concessions Information Line 1800 658 521 (free call)
Victorian Energy Compare compare.energy.vic.gov.au
Information in this post is sourced from VCOSS’s Health and Energy Hardship resource and the World Health Organisation.
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