The Andrews Labor Government is extending its $250 Power Saving Bonus payment by five months until 30 June this year to support more vulnerable households doing it tough with energy bills.
More than 350,000 Victorians have already accessed the one-off $250 payment − part of a $797 million household energy affordability package announced in November 2020.
Households receiving payments through the Pensioner Concession, JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance programs, or those who hold a Department of Veterans' Affairs Gold Card, are eligible for the payment.
The payment is delivered through the Victorian Energy Compare website, which receives more than one million visitors each year and helps consumers find the best energy deal available. Data shows seven out of every 10 users can save money by switching energy offers, with a typical annual saving of $330.
The $250 Power Saving Bonus payment is transferred electronically into bank accounts or provided via cheque on request, with cheques typically taking about two weeks to arrive.
To help people who may not have access to a computer or who need assistance with their application, the Government is providing support through the Power Saving Bonus Community Outreach Program.
Program partners include the Brotherhood of St. Laurence, Good Shepherd and Neighbourhood House, Ethnic Communities Council of Victoria, Consumer Action Law Centre and State Trustees Limited.
People can apply for the one-off $250 Power Saving Bonus at compare.energy.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 000 832.
As stated by Minister for Energy, Environment and Climate Change Lily D'Ambrosio
"We are proud to continue supporting vulnerable households with the $250 Power Saving Bonus payment program until 30 June."
"In its first year this one-off payment has provided much-needed assistance, delivering $87.5 million to more than 350,000 households, but there are still many Victorians on support payments who have not yet applied for what could be crucial help with their energy bills."
"I encourage all eligible Victorians to apply either online or by calling the Victorian Energy Compare helpline."
