Energy-smart ideas for the winter holidays

^{EnergyAustralia’s Social Media Team}

^{July 2025}

Winter school holidays are the perfect time to step away from screens, spend time with loved ones, and lighten your energy footprint. While it's natural to want to stay warm indoors, running heaters and extra appliances, all day can increase your household's energy usage without you realising it.

The good news? You can enjoy the holidays and use less energy at the same time. Whether you're planning time with the kids or a couple’s day out, these ideas will help you make the most of the season, without maxing out your electricity use.

Head outside for warmth and fun

Fresh air and movement are great ways to warm up naturally. Visit your local park, walking track, or beach for a low-energy day out. Leaving the house means you can turn off lights, heaters and electronics while you’re gone—easy energy savings.

Tip: Rug up with scarves, jackets and take a thermos of hot chocolate.

Embrace energy-smart community spaces

Public libraries, museums and community centres are heated efficiently and often run free or low-cost programs during the holidays. You’ll stay warm and entertained without drawing on your own home’s energy.

Unplug for an evening

Try a ‘low power’ night once a week. Swap screens and devices for board games, puzzles, or reading by lamp or candlelight. It’s a great way to reconnect and reduce energy usage in a simple, mindful way.

Cook efficiently

Winter cooking doesn’t have to mean long hours of oven time. Try batch cooking, use energy-efficient appliances like slow cookers or air fryers, and keep lids on pots to retain heat.

Bonus: Cooking in the oven can help warm your kitchen, reducing the need for additional heating.

Use natural light and warmth

Plan indoor activities during the brightest part of the day and open blinds to let in natural warmth. Close curtains at sunset to keep that warmth in. It’s a small habit that makes a big difference to your home’s overall energy usage.

Low-energy, high-fun activity ideas around Australia

Victoria (7–18 July)

Melbourne Museum & NGV: Free exhibitions and kids’ programs
Fed Square: Outdoor performances and winter pop-ups
whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

New South Wales (7–18 July)

Sydney Olympic Park: Free Kids in the Park activities
Local libraries: Craft sessions, storytelling and tech-free fun
sydneyexpert.com

Queensland (7–18 July)

Queensland Museum: Free, hands-on learning indoors
Brisbane libraries: Workshops and energy-friendly programs
brisbanekids.com.au

South Australia (7–18 July)

Adelaide Central Market: Cooking sessions and family activities
Free entry: South Australian Museum and Art Gallery
kidsinadelaide.com.au
Local nature trails: Great for daytime adventures

Western Australia (5–20 July)

WA Museum and Art Gallery: Free exhibitions and activities
buggybuddys.com.au
Bushwalks and reserves: Active and unplugged family outings

Tasmania (5–20 July)

Bushwalks and reserves: Active and unplugged family outings
Festival of Voices: Free music and local community events
hobartandbeyond.com.au

Northern Territory (7–18 July)

School Holiday Program: Free events in Darwin and Alice Springs
Outdoor swim spots and community pools: Great for daytime fun
territorycommunitysafety.nt.gov.au

ACT (5–20 July)

National Gallery & Questacon: Indoor activities with shared energy use
Libraries ACT: Story sessions and creative play
schoolholidaysaustralia.com.au

^{We are not affiliated with any of these programs so make sure you check the event websites for more details.}

A lighter energy load, a fuller holiday

The winter break doesn’t have to mean higher energy use. Whether you’re exploring your local area, taking part in community events, or simply turning things off when you’re not using them, these small changes can help you use less and enjoy more.

Want more tips on how to save energy this winter?
Explore our Winter Energy Guide for ways to reduce energy usage while staying comfortable at home.