Whittlesea and Hume residents doing it tough to apply for a one-off $250 Power Saving Bonus.
Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister and Mill Park MP Lily D’Ambrosio said that 300,000 payments, totalling $76.6 million, had been made to Victorians since the program was established 12 months ago.
Eligible households include those receiving payments through the Pension Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or who hold a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card.
The program provides a $250 payment to those who need it most with the payment typically transferred electronically into bank accounts or provided by cheque on request.
People who may not have a computer or need help applying can get help through community outreach partners − Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Consumer Policy Research Centre, Good Shepherd and Neighbourhood House, Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria, Consumer Action Law Centre, and State Trustees Limited.
The Power Saving Bonus is part of the government’s $797 million household energy affordability package.
It is delivered through the Victorian Energy Compare website which helps people find the best energy deal, with data showing seven out of every 10 users save money by switching – typically saving around $330 a year.
“There are still many Victorian households who are eligible for help with their energy bills through this bonus and I encourage everyone who needs help to apply,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“This one-off $250 payment provides immediate financial relief for those struggling to pay their power bills.
“We want to help as many vulnerable households as we can − whether that’s through a quick call with the Victorian Energy Compare helpline or by a visit to one of program partners.”
The program closes on January 31.
To apply for the bonus, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au. If you need assistance with your application phone 1800 000 832.
