Access Canberra has launched a website to help Canberra residents and families cope with the rising cost of living.
Named ACT Assistance, the new website directs visitors to discounts, rebates and other concessions as well as guiding them towards information and financial support if needed.
Announcing ACT Assistance, Chief Minister, Andrew Barr said cost of living pressures weighed more heavily on some Canberrans than others.
“That’s why the Government has concessions, rebates and payment plans to make sure the every-day cost of living doesn’t derail the wellbeing of any family or individual,” Mr Barr said.
“Every year thousands of Canberrans access Government assistance with ongoing expenses like housing, bills and transport, as well as unexpected costs like a funeral or new medical expenses.”
He said Assistance made it easier for Canberrans to find information and apply for financial support.
“Answering a few simple questions in the site’s new Savings Finder tool will bring up a list of savings that may be relevant,” Mr Barr said.
“Almost 30,000 people took up the ACT Government’s Utilities Concession in each of the last two financial years, receiving up to a $654 discount on their electricity bills.”
In addition, around 17,000 people accessed rebates and deferments to help with their rates bills in both 2016-17 and 2017-18, including more than 15,000 pensioners and more than 600 people facing financial hardship.
“Other assistance includes discounted or free travel on buses and light rail; financial support for secondary students in low-income families; help to cover the upfront cost of a rental bond, and paying fines in instalments,” Mr Barr said.
The Assistance website can be accessed at this PS News link.
