Up to 171,000 South Australian households could save up to $585 off their annual energy bill after the Liberal Government negotiated a new 20 per cent discount deal, effective from today.
The SA Concessions Energy Discount Offer (SACEDO) is offered through Origin Energy and is available for all South Australian Energy Concession recipients.
Eligible households include people who hold certain concession cards or Centrelink payments and the offer includes a range of further benefits for consumers, such as no late payment penalties.
Minister for Human Services Michelle Lensink said the energy discount offer would benefit thousands of South Australian households who need help.
"The Liberal Government recognises that every little bit helps," said Minister Lensink.
"Thousands of South Australian households struggle to pay high utility costs and that is why we re-negotiated a better deal from an 18 to 20 per cent discount to help people who need it.
"The new deal means high energy usage households could save up to $585 off their annual energy bill and the offer also applies to both electricity usage and supply charge.
"When someone receives an energy concession for the first time they are notified of other concessions and offers they may be eligible for, including the SACEDO.
"I would encourage anyone receiving an energy concession to take a look at the energy discount the Liberal Government has negotiated with Origin to see if they can save more money on their energy bills.
"The former Labor Government failed to maintain affordable and reliable electricity in our state, which was a huge detriment to South Australian families, businesses and the economy.
"The Liberal Government is committed to delivering more affordable electricity for South Australians to ensure the community have cheaper and more reliable power into the future."
More than 50,000 South Australian households have already taken up the SACEDO and stand to benefit from the increase in discount from 18 to 20 per cent automatically.
Origin's Executive General Manager, of Retail Jon Briskin said: "There are 120,000 Energy Concession recipients in South Australia who haven't yet signed up for the offer and this is an easy way for them to reduce their electricity bill with just one phone call.
"Origin is proud to be increasing the energy concession discount in partnership with the State Government as part of our continuing commitment to support and provide price relief to the most vulnerable members of the community.
"Further benefits of the offer include flexible payment options, no late payment penalties, credit card processing fees or exit fees."
Households receiving the SACEDO can also benefit from an 11 per cent discount on their gas usage and supply charges.
Eligible South Australians already taking advantage of this retail offer will have the increased discount automatically applied, while new customers will need to contact Origin on 1300 791 465.
The State Government offers a number of concessions to help households with cost of living payments and energy bills, including the SA Energy Concession and the annual Cost of Living Concession payment.
For any questions about concession eligibility, call Concessions SA on 1800 307 758 or www.sa.gov.au/concessions.
