FEDERAL BUDGET 2012: Cuts to staff but not programs for DCCEE

Key budget developments with the Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency are: 

-- A cut of $46.7 million over the next three years from the department to administer programs related to energy efficiency and the Clean Energy Future package, although there will be an offsetting increase of $22.9 million for program support in the climate science area.

-- The funding for the programs themselves have largely escaped cuts and there has been new funding announced to continue to support the energy performance standards and labelling program. It's nothing to get too excited about however, as it will simply allow the best climate mitigation program in the country to continue as planned.

-- As previously announced the rebate for solar hot water will not continue in 2012-13.