The Victorian Government's $250 Power Saving Bonus is helping to drive down power bills by targeting low income community members in need of financial assistance.
The bonus grants eligible Victorians a one-off $250 payment, to assist households with the cost of living during the pandemic and its associated lockdowns.
“The pandemic has only exacerbated existing poverty within our communities, and many people have lost work or significant income as a direct result of Victoria’s lockdowns,” Neighbourhood Houses Victoria chief executive Nicole Battle said.
“This bonus offers some financial relief for these community members, many of whom have to choose whether they can pay their next electricity bill or put food on the table.”
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning has engaged Neighbourhood Houses across Victoria, in partnership with Good Shepherd, to spread the word about the bonus.
“Being such grassroots organisations, they are best positioned to reach people within their communities who already come to them for other support services such as food relief, job seeking support, digital literacy programs and Centrelink assistance,” Ms Battle said.
Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre’s manager Jan Phillips said the centre was able and willing to help community members complete their online applications for the bonus.
“We know there are members of our community who have never used a computer before or lack confidence and skills to do something like submit an application online,” she said.
“We don’t want this to be a barrier to them accessing the $250 payment, so we are available to step them through the process, and make sure they aren’t left behind.”
To be eligible for the Power Saving Bonus, applicants must hold a pensioner concession card or receive JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance.
For assistance with accessing the Power Saving Bonus, visit Mooroopna Education and Activity Centre at 23 Alexandra Street or call the centre on 5825 1774.
