The $250 Power Saving Bonus payment has been extended until 30 June to help support households doing it tough with energy bills.
Monbulk MP James Merlino said that the extension would provide crucial financial support for eligible households who have yet to receive the payment.
“The Power Saving Bonus is easing cost of living pressures and I encourage all eligible households to apply for what could be a crucial $250 payment towards their energy bills,” Mr Merlino said.
“Applying for the Power Saving Bonus is as easy as a five-minute online application or phone call, and constituents are always welcome to contact my office on 9754 5401 if they require further assistance.”
Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D’Ambrosio said since it was launched in February last year, more than 350,000 Victorians have received the one-off payment, at a total value of $87.5 million, but believes the extension will help more vulnerable households access the payment.
“We are proud to continue supporting vulnerable households with the $250 Power Saving Bonus payment
program until 30 June,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“There are still many Victorians on support payments who have not yet applied for what could be crucial help with their energy bills.”
The payment is transferred electronically via bank transfer or cheque on request, taking up to two weeks to arrive, and is eligible for those receiving payments through the Pensioner Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or who hold a Department of Veterans’ Affairs Gold Card.
For households who may not have access to a computer or require assistance with their application, the Government is providing support through the Power Saving Bonus Community Outreach Program.
The payment is delivered through the Victorian Energy Compare website, which receives more than one million visitors each year.
Victorian Energy Compare is an independent price comparison tool that helps consumers find the best energy deal available. Data shows seven out of every ten users can save money by switching energy offers
with a typical annual saving of $330.
The Power Saving Bonus payment was announces as part of the $797 million household energy affordability package announced in November 2020.
To apply for the one-off $250 Power Saving Bonus go to www.compare.energy.vic.gov.au or, if you need
assistance with your application, phone 1800 000 832.
