Changes to Victoria’s Power Saving Bonus scheme have taken effect this week, with the payment dropping from $250 to $100 and eligibility now limited to concession card holders.
“Cutting the Power Saving Bonus by more than half is shutting the door on working families, pensioners without concession cards and low-income earners,” state Member for Shepparton Kim O’Keeffe said.
The scheme, which previously offered cost-of-living support to all residential electricity account holders, now applies only to those holding Health Care Cards, Pensioner Concession Cards, or Veterans’ Affairs cards.
“Regional Victorians are being hit hardest by these soaring costs, yet Labor’s cuts mean even more families and vulnerable households are being shut out of the support they desperately need,” Ms O’Keeffe said.
According to the Australian Energy Regulator’s latest quarterly report, wholesale electricity prices in Victoria have risen by 21 per cent compared to last year.
Ms O’Keeffe’s office is continuing to help eligible residents with their applications.
Those needing assistance can phone 5831 6944 or visit the electorate office at 318 Wyndham St, Shepparton.
The Power Saving Bonus can only be accessed through online applications, potentially creating difficulties for older residents and those without internet access.