Helping Vulnerable Victorians Access Bill Relief
The Andrews Labor Government is helping drive down the energy costs of Victorians most in need with the bill busting $250 Power Saving Bonus.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio today announced that 400,000 vulnerable Victorians have already applied for the $250 Power Saving Bonus, totalling $100 million in payments to help those who need it most.
Eligible concession card holders have two weeks left to access the current Power Saving Bonus, visiting the Victorian Energy Compare site to find a better deal, before they can apply for the new bonus payment from July 1.
User data shows that seven out of 10 users can save money by switching energy offers, with typical annual savings of $330 in the first year of switching alone. Combined with the two Power Saving Bonuses, Victorian households could be up to $830 better off.
Victorian households and businesses are also able to reduce their energy bill and usage thanks to the Labor Governments Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) program – providing both households and businesses with upfront incentives to switch to energy efficient.
Households are eligible for low-cost-to-free VEU products such as energy efficient lighting, door and window sealing, efficient hot water and heating systems, and in-home displays for real-time energy usage data.
In addition, the Labor Government’s Solar Homes program offers households and businesses discounted solar panels, hot water, batteries and efficient heating and cooling.
Those finding it tough to pay energy bills may also be able to take advantage of the energy concessions program, utility relief grant scheme, Payment Difficulty Framework and Victorian Default Offer.
Victorians who do not have access to a computer or the internet can call the Victorian Energy Compare helpline on 1800 000 832 or receive support from a community outreach partners.
For more information on these programs, visit Victorian Energy Saver: .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio
“We know the cost of living is going up, and we’re playing a role in supporting Victorians who are paying more for power than they should.”
“Our $250 Power Saving Bonus is already providing immediate financial relief for those struggling to pay their power bills and from 1 July will be available to all Victorians – helping everyone find a better energy deal.”
Quote attributable to Member for Richmond Richard Wynne
“From the Power Saving Bonus to the utility relief grant scheme – we are protecting vulnerable Victorians, helping everyone be more energy efficient and find a better deal on their energy bill.”