Energy package to save money, boost health and cut emissions

MEDIA RELEASE

A comprehensive new energy and cost-of-living package announced today by the Victorian Government will help people save money, stay healthy and protect the planet.

The package includes:

• $1,000 rebate for 250,000 low-income households to replace old, inefficient and expensive heaters with a modern split system.
• A $250 rebate for roughly 950,000 Victorian energy users, including concession card holders and JobSeeker recipients.
• Upgrading energy efficiency in 35,000 social housing properties.
• The introduction of minimum energy efficiency standards for all private rental properties.

VCOSS CEO Emma King said the package would have immediate and significant positive benefits for the state’s most vulnerable.

“Everybody needs a home that stays cool in summer and warm in winter,” she said.

“That hasn’t been possible for everybody.”

“Thousands of Victorians are living in substandard housing with power-guzzling old appliances, that cost a lot to run and do a poor job.”

“These changes mean more people can now upgrade their old appliances and live in better quality housing; cutting bills, creating healthier homes and reducing emissions.”

“It’s good for people, good for the economy and good for the planet.”

“It’s good for people, good for the economy and good for the planet.”

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This media release has been updated to clarify that JobKeeper recipients are not eligible for the one-off $250 payment.