Bronwyn Halfpenny, Thomastown MP
We all understand the pressures being faced by families and individuals from the rising cost of living. The Victorian government has introduced several measures to support people and their budgets.
Current Victorian government measures to support household budgets include the $250 Power Saving Bonus for all Victorians. Over one million Victorian households have applied for the $250 Power Saving Bonus since its launch on July 1. The incredible uptake of the program will be supported with an additional $205 million to ensure that every Victorian household can access the one-off $250 payment. Households can apply for the Power Saving Bonus by visiting the Victorian Energy Compare website or call 1800 000 832.
We are providing rebates of up to $1400 for solar panel (PV) system installation, for homeowners and rental properties plus the option of an interest-free loan. So far almost 8000 homes from the Whittlesea Local Government Area have had solar panels installed through this program.
Only a few months after our Australian-first Sick Pay Guarantee initiative was launched, more than 30,000 casual and contract workers have signed up and more than $6 million has been paid to workers in frontline jobs like hospitality, retail, and aged care.Casual and self-employed contract workers who do not have access to any sick and carer’s pay are encouraged to check their eligibility and sign up now, on the Victorian government’s website.
Victorians are now able to pay less upfront when you choose a three- or six-month registration renewal for cars and motorbikes.If you register for a shorter period your annual registration fee is split into equal portions, which you will need to pay when they are due.You can do this through the VicRoads website or visiting a VicRoads Customer Service Centre.
Additionally, we’re making L and P licences free and rewarding safe drivers with a 25 per cent discount on your next license renewal. New Learner drivers will save up to $51.40 in learner licensing and online testing fees. While probationary drivers will save up to $133.30 in probationary license and online hazard perception testing fees. We’re also bringing back the Safe Driver Discount. If you have not incurred any demerit points or committed a road safety offence, you’ll get a 25 per cent discount on your licence renewal.
Recently we announced that three- and-four- year-old kindergarten will be completely free for families from 2023. If you have one child in kindergarten this will mean a saving of $2500
The Andrews Labor government is committed to continue working long and hard to drive down the cost of living for all Victorians. If you have any queries regarding the measures above, feel free to contact my office by emailing bronwyn.halfpenny@parliament.vic.gov.au or call 9401 2711.
