The government's decision to not pursue a further round of energy bill rebates is the right call - but must be backed up with investment to reduce hardship for those most in need.
"People on lower incomes urgently need relief, but these rebates were a short term, poorly targeted policy that failed to meaningfully help those who needed it," said ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie.
"We regularly hear from people who can't afford their gas and electricity bills because homes aren't energy efficient, and their incomes are simply too low.
"The government has spent $6.8 billion on energy bill rebates. For that amount we could fund energy upgrades for every social housing property in Australia, permanently reducing bills by thousands of dollars each year.
"For more immediate relief we can also take the costs of renewable subsidies off energy bills, provide energy debt relief, and raise the rate of Jobseeker and related payments so people can afford energy bills and be lifted out of poverty."
ACOSS is calling on the Government to urgently deliver four key energy reforms:
Further investment in home energy upgrades for low-income households and First Nations communities, noting governments have so far only committed to upgrading 25% of social housing.
Provide energy-debt relief for households most at risk of disconnection and financial hardship.
Shift renewable-energy subsidy costs off electricity bills and onto the federal budget, reducing bills by up to 7%
Raise the rate of JobSeeker and related payments, ensuring people can cover essential costs, including energy, without going without food, medication or heating.
"We support the Government's decision to move away from broad rebates," Dr Goldie said.
"Now we need a serious, long-term plan so people can live with dignity, stay connected, and stay safe in their homes in the summer heat."
