Rising energy bills have become a common challenge for many Australians. With the cost of living increasing steadily, managing household expenses can feel overwhelming, and energy costs are a significant part of that burden.
It’s no surprise that finding ways to ease these pressures is a top priority for families across the country. In response to these ongoing struggles, a state government recently announced a new energy rebate to provide much-needed relief.
Treasurer Jaclyn Symes has confirmed that a new $100 Power Saving Bonus will be available to concession card holders in Victoria as part of a sweeping $2.3 billion cost-of-living package unveiled in the latest state budget.
‘This is support you can feel—at the kitchen table, at the school gate, at the train station,’ Symes said.
This one-off payment, totalling $50 million in government support, will be accessible through the Victorian Energy Compare website starting in August.
If you’re a concession card holder—think Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or DVA Gold Card—this is money you can claim simply by comparing your energy plan online.
It’s a quick process, and the bonus is designed to encourage you to shop around for a better deal, potentially saving even more on your bills.
This isn’t the first time Victorians have received a Power Saving Bonus. The government has previously offered up to $250 to all households, with the most recent round wrapping up in August 2023.
The new $100 bonus is more targeted, focusing on those who most need it. And there’s more good news: this state-based support comes on top of the federal government’s $150 energy bill rebate, which will start rolling out from 1 July.
That means eligible Victorians could see a combined $250 in energy bill relief this year, just in time for those winter heating costs.
What else is in the cost-of-living package?
The $100 energy rebate is part of a broader plan to help Victorians manage rising expenses. Here are some other highlights from the budget:
- Free public transport for under 18s and seniors: $320 million has been allocated to provide free public transport for children and teenagers, plus free statewide travel for seniors on weekends.
- Hot water rebates: An extra 27,000 households can claim rebates for installing electric heat pumps or solar hot water systems, helping you save on energy bills for years.
- Pharmacy care expansion: $18 million will allow pharmacists to treat more minor ailments, saving you the hassle and cost of a GP visit for common issues.
- Support for families with kids: Over $1.3 billion is being invested in education support, including free kinder (saving families up to $2,600 per child per year), more Get Active Kids vouchers (worth up to $200), and increased funding for the Camps, Sports and Excursions Fund—now offering $400 to 200,000 eligible kids.
- Stamp duty relief: $61 million has been set aside to reduce stamp duty for off-the-plan apartments, units, and townhouses for another year, making it easier for downsizers or first-home buyers to enter the market.
How do you claim the $100 Power Saving Bonus?
It’s simple: head to the Victorian Energy Compare website when the program opens in August. You’ll need your concession card details and a recent energy bill.
The process only takes a few minutes, and you’ll be guided through comparing your current plan with others on the market. If you’re eligible, the $100 bonus will be paid directly.
Have you claimed a Power Saving Bonus before? Did it help you find a better energy deal? Are you planning to take advantage of the new $100 rebate? We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Share your stories in the comments below.
Also read: Are your utility bills too high? These simple energy-saving tricks could save you hundreds
Phhht relevant to Vic only