Victorian residents are finally set to receive their first electricity rebates for 2024-25, with $300 expected to be taken off bills during the next billing cycle.
Residents in Queensland and Western Australia residents had already begun receiving these rebates from July 1, while Victorian residents had been left waiting for the energy minister to sign off and clear the red tape.
Despite households and businesses across the region dealing with the challenges of a rising cost-of-living, relief had been elusive despite the rebates being fully funded from the Federal Government.
The Nationals’ Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, said her office was receiving regular queries about when the quarterly rebates would be paid, with locals understandably frustrated by the lack of information.
“My office has had several people contacting us frustrated about the lack of credit provided to their bills, with most expecting this to be paid back in July,” Ms Cleeland said.
“There was a clear lack of communication provided to our energy providers too, who were unable to provide a definitive timeline to customers about when these rebates would be applied.
“Until this week it remained unclear, however it seems as if progress has finally been made.”
Ms Cleeland said the rebates would help ease some of the ongoing concerns that households were having.
“Due to the Allan Labor Government’s failed energy policies, heating homes and businesses has never been more expensive,” Ms Cleeland said.
“According to the St Vincent De Paul Society, electricity prices have risen by 28 per cent and gas prices by 22 per cent in the last year alone, the highest increases in Australia.
“High inflation, rising interest rates, and bigger tax bills have left families across the electorate facing a significant financial hit – sadly too many people have had to choose between heating and eating.
“It is clear that Labor can’t manage money, can’t manage our energy system, and Victorians are paying the price.”
