By Deanne Jeffers
SHEPPARTON is among the top 10 electorates to have taken up the State Government’s Power Saving Bonus, which has helped ease the cost of living for more than 1M Victorian households by delivering $250 directly into their pockets through the fourth round of the program.
More than 17,000 households have claimed the $250 bonus through a community outreach partner, with 73 percent of these applicants receiving additional energy affordability advice.
The latest round has also seen 40 percent of applicants find a better energy deal – with thousands of Victorians choosing to switch and save by changing their energy deal through the Victorian Energy Compare website.
The Energy Assistance Program – a free service providing consumers experiencing hardship with one-on-one assistance – has helped over 500 applicants navigate the energy market, apply for eligible grants and concessions, find and switch to better offers and address billing errors.
Applications for the $250 payment can be made through the Victorian Energy Compare website, which shows the best energy offers in their areas. For those without internet access, over-the-phone or in-person support is available through community outreach partners, including the Brotherhood of St Laurence, Ethnic Community Council Victoria, Good Shepherd, State Trustees and hundreds of Neighbourhood Houses.
“The best way to lower energy bills is to look for a better offer – that’s why we’re encouraging Victorians to take advantage of another round of the Power Saving Bonus, to make sure they are on the best deal ahead of winter,” said Premier Daniel Andrews.
To access the $250 Power Saving Bonus, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832. To speak to an Energy Assistance Program advocate, call 1800 161 215.
Top 10 regional electorates:
1. Wendouree (13,645)
2. Morwell (13, 433)
3. Bass (12,045)
4. Lara (11,955)
5. South Barwon (11,868)
6. Bendigo East (11,712)
7. Bellarine (11, 515)
8. Eureka (11,427)
9. Geelong (11, 376)
10. Shepparton (10, 627)
