Illegal Cold Calling for Heat Pumps:

Don't Let Scammers Steal Your Rebate!


A Real Rebate, Not a Scam

Heat pumps are an excellent way to reduce energy bills and cut emissions.
The government rebate is real — but only when done through legitimate, accredited businesses following the rules.

Don’t let scammers ruin your chance to upgrade your hot water system safely and affordably.


Updated: August 2025

Location: Victoria, Australia.

Did you receive an unsolicited phone call
offering a free or discounted heat pump system?

You’re not alone — and you may have just been targeted by an illegal cold caller.

As of 1 August 2022, under the Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program, it is illegal for businesses to make cold calls or door-to-door sales to promote heat pump hot water systems. These rules were introduced to protect households from high-pressure tactics, misleading information, and fraudulent operators that can cost you your eligibility for rebates.

Why This Matters

Many Victorian households are eligible for generous government rebates when switching to energy-efficient systems like heat pumps. However: If you engage with an installer who contacts you via illegal cold calling, you may become ineligible for the rebate.

Worse still, dodgy operators may install substandard systems, charge hidden fees, or provide false information — leaving you out of pocket with no recourse.

What Changed on 1 August 2022?

The Victorian Government banned cold calling and door knocking for heat pump hot water systems as part of the VEU program reforms.

This means:

  • Businesses cannot call you without your consent to promote or sell heat pumps.
  • They cannot knock on your door to offer these products.
  • All marketing must be opt-in, and installers must follow strict accreditation and conduct rules.

What Should I Do If I Get a Cold Call?

If you receive a suspicious or unsolicited call about heat pumps:


Follow these steps:


  • Do not agree to anything on the spot.
  • Ask for the following information:
  • Business name
  • ABN or company registration number
  • The name of the caller
  • Their website or contact number
  • Note the date, time, and phone number used.
  • Do NOT provide personal or banking information.


Report the call immediately to:


You may also report unsolicited calls to:


How to Stay Safe:


  • Register your number on the Do Not Call Register: www.donotcall.gov.au
  • Only use VEU-accredited providers – check the official register before signing up for any rebate.
  • Get multiple quotes and verify a company’s credentials via the Energy Victoria website.

Please share this page to raise awareness to those around you, especially to vulnerable people in your life.

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