The Australian Council of Social Service has welcomed the federal government's intervention to lower energy prices and provide targeted help to those in most need.
ACOSS CEO Cassandra Goldie said "the move will help millions of people battling cost of living pressures including rising energy costs.
"The cost of living crisis is hitting people on low incomes hardest, with one in eight people living in poverty, she said.
"Too many people are cutting energy use to unhealthy levels, using foodbanks, and going without everyday essentials so they can pay their energy bills.
"The number of people with energy debts of $2500 or more has increased by a staggering 39% throughout 2022.
"The prospect of a further 56 per cent rise in electricity and 44% rise in gas prices was a looming nightmare.
"Today's announcement is an important step towards preventing disaster for the most vulnerable people in our society in the shorter term.
"We look forward to working with the government on implementation and on the measures that will be needed to deliver affordable energy for the long term.
