Starting next July power companies must tell people with Centrelink benefits about their discount options. This new rule will help customers save money on their electricity bills. Many people who get payments like the age pension or JobSeeker don’t know they can pay less for power.
The change will make sure these customers get the discounts they deserve. Power companies will have to reach out and explain these savings to people with concession cards. This will help millions of people reduce their energy costs. The new system starts on July 1, 2024. It’s a simple way to make sure no one misses out on cheaper bills.
Many Australians don’t know they can get this benefit. About 60 percent of people who could claim it never do. This happens because people need to ask about it themselves. Most customers don’t realize they should check if they qualify. The system expects people to take the first step but many don’t know this option exists.
The updated policy requires stores to check if customers qualify for discounts. When people start a new service or change their plan, staff must explain what benefits are available in their state.
This applies to customers who receive pension payments, JobSeeker support or veteran benefits in New South Wales, South Australia, Tasmania Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory. The stores need to tell these customers about all discounts they can get.
Energy Minister Chris Bowen wants to help people save money on their power bills. He believes that all Australians should get better deals from energy companies.
The new rules will make power companies tell customers about all available discounts. This will help people who get government benefits to find cheaper rates. The changes aim to make energy prices more fair for everyone.
You can get help with your energy bills right now – no need to wait for future changes. The head of the Australian Energy Market Commission, Anna Collyer wants people to call their energy companies today.
She says many customers can already get discounts and support but need to ask for it. It’s worth checking what help you can get by talking to your provider. Don’t wait around if you’re struggling with payments.
Call your energy company right now if you have a concession card or if you’re seeking asylum. People in South Australia should contact ConcessionsSA instead” she explained.
Many people don’t get the help they should because they don’t know they can ask for it.” The energy sector has some new rules starting now. One big change is that power companies can only increase their prices once every year.
Starting December 30 2026, power companies must tell customers about cheaper plans. They need to include this information in all bill-related messages & not just on the actual bill. This helps customers know when they can save money by switching to a better deal.
If you have a Pensioner Card Health Care Card or Veterans’ Gold Card you may get a discount on your power bills.
This depends on your location in Australia. To learn more about these discounts & savings, visit Energy.gov.au or check your local state government website.
How can individuals apply for Centrelink Energy Relief bill discounts?
By meeting eligibility criteria and following application guidelines.
