The government should move to safeguard and increase jobs in the building and construction industry by embracing green plans to make homes energy efficient, according to the Australian Greens Housing Spokesperson, Senator Scott Ludlam.

"Rather than pumping millions of dollars into counter-productive policies like the first home owner grants, the government should be providing energy efficient make-overs for homes. That would make homes genuinely affordable, giving the construction industry and the environment a boost," Senator Ludlam said.

"Under the Greens' plan, government would pay the up-front costs for energy efficiency upgrades like insulation and solar hot water systems. This would create green, affordable homes for the future."

"This would grow thousands of new jobs in green renovation - just what the building and construction industry needs at a time of economic slowdown."

"In addition, the Government should look at ways of expanding and greening up programmes like the National Rental Affordability Scheme and increasing support for public housing, as an additional boost to the construction industry."

Senator Ludlam made the comments as the Master Builders Association warned of a poor construction outlook for the new year.

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