A range of programs designed to support Victorians who need help with their energy bills. The programs are being delivered by community organisations with support from the Victorian Government.
There are three programs that make up the package:- The Consumer Policy and Research Centre (CPRC) is delivering a series of online events based on its Energy Simplified Program to help households manage energy costs and reduce bills. The program also includes online events for community workers so they can help their clients save on bills. Visit www.energyinfohub.org.au/webinars
- Consumer Affairs Victoria is expanding its existing Financial Counselling Program to include additional financial counsellors to help people in financial difficulty to manage their debts, including assistance with energy matters. Visit www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-debt/financial-counselling or contact the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007
- A consortium between the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL), the Australian Energy Foundation, Uniting Vic. Tas and BehaviourWorks Australia is delivering the Energy Assistance Program. This program provides one-on-one bill support and tailored energy assistance to help eligible households save money on electricity and gas and get advice on energy issues. Visit www.bsl.org.au/energy-assist or contact 1800 830 029
Who are they for?
The programs are available to all Victorians who are having trouble paying their energy bills or would like some help to reduce energy costs and better understand their bills. The level of assistance provided through the targeted programs will depend on a person’s needs and circumstances.CPRC is also delivering online events designed for the community sector, to show frontline community workers simple steps that will help clients save on their electricity and gas bills.
How long will they be available?
CPRC will deliver free online events until the end of 2020 and the Energy Assistance Program will be available until 30 June 2021. Financial Counselling Program services are always available.Do these programs provide services for people who speak another language?
Yes – The Financial Counselling Program and the Energy Assistance Program can be accessed through either translator or interpreter services. There are also translated materials available in a wide range of languages.MORE:
State Government of Victoria (GOVV)
Address: Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, PO box 5000, Melbourne VIC 8002
Tel: 136 186 or National Relay Service on 133 677 or visit www.relayservice.gov.au