A program aimed at helping Victorians minimise their energy costs has helped more than 50,000 people in its first three months according to the Minister for Energy and Resources, Lily D’Ambrosio.
Ms D’Ambrosio said the Power Saving Bonus Community Outreach Program (PSBCOB) had minimised the people’s energy costs as well as submitting an application for $250 payment in just three months.
She announced the significant milestone in helping Victorians access the valuable cost-of-living support payment and advice, and thanked Community Outreach Partners.
“The Community Outreach Program supports households who have no internet or are experiencing vulnerability to apply for the $250 Power Saving Bonus,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
“It provides access to services with over-the-phone support and in-person support at more than 300 sites statewide, including 159 regional sites,” she said.
She said the program was delivered with trusted community and not-for-profit organisations that also provided advice on ways to reduce household energy bills.
“Three quarters of households who applied through the Community Outreach Program received assistance on applicable energy concessions, finding better energy offers and hardship support,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
She said she understood Victorians were under cost-of-living pressure right now and were so pleased 50,000 community members had been able to access the $250 Power Saving Bonus through the Community Outreach Program.
“It is vital Victorians from all walks of life get the support they need,” she said.
“We’re also helping Victorians get the best energy deals and assistance to access applicable concessions through the Energy Assistance Program.”
The Minister said that more than 1.5 million households applied for the $250 Power Saving Bonus since the current fourth round of the program opened on 24 March.
“Households experiencing difficulty paying their energy bills can also access the Victorian Government’s Energy Assistance Program, a free service connecting them with one-on-one assistance,” she said.
“The $3.75 million initiative helps Victorians struggling with power bills to apply for eligible grants and concessions, find and switch to better offers,” Ms D’Ambrosio said.
She said that to access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, people should visit the Victorian Energy Compare website at compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832.
“To speak to an Energy Assistance Program advocate, call 1800 161 215,” the Minister said.
