By Eleanor Wilson
The State Government has announced it will extend the $250 Power Saving Bonus payment for vulnerable households facing difficulty with their energy bills.
The one-off $250 payment will be extended until 30 June, and is available for households receiving payments through the Pensioner Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or those who hold a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card.
Member for Narre Warren South Gary Maas MP said the extension would provide crucial financial support for eligible households who have yet to receive the payment.
“It just takes a five-minute online application or phone call to apply, and constituents are always welcome to contact my office on 8783 6959 if they require further assistance,” he said.
More than 350,000 Victorians have accessed the payment since it was launched in February 2021 as a part of a $797 million household energy affordability package.
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said despite delivering $87.5 million to households in its first year, the payment is yet to reach all vulnerable households.
“There are still many Victorians on support payments who have not yet applied for what could be crucial help with their energy bills,” she said.
“I encourage all eligible Victorians to apply either online or by calling the Victorian Energy Compare helpline.”
The payment is transferred electronically into bank accounts or provided via cheque on request, and typically takes about two weeks to arrive.
To apply for the one-off $250 Power Saving Bonus, go to compare.energy.vic.gov.au or, if you need assistance with your application, phone 1800 000 832.
