Zap! NSW raises energy rebates by $350: How can you get the cash?
The NSW government is boosting existing energy rebates available to eligible seniors, families and low-income households by up to $350 from 1 July 2024.
Treasurer Jim Mookhey said the state has allocated an additional $100 million in its budget to aid households struggling with the cost of living, particularly energy bills.
Here's a rundown of the changes you can expect:
- Family Energy Rebate will increase from $180 to $250
- Seniors Energy Rebate will increase from $200 to $250
- Low-Income Household Rebate will increase from $285 to $350
- Medical Energy Rebate will increase from $285 to $350 as well
Gas rebates remain unchanged at $110.
There will be some reforms coming in place to make it easier for NSW residents to apply for these energy rebates. However, the details have yet to be announced.
"We don't simply want this money sitting in the bank accounts on the NSW Treasury, we want it going out the door," Mookhey said during a conference.
You can check your eligibility for energy rebates and concessions by visiting the NSW Climate and Energy Action website. Depending on your eligibility, you may be able to apply for multiple rebates.
You can also call up your energy provider if you're struggling to understand the eligibility criteria.
Is the boost in NSW energy rebates good enough?
It's good news for low-income households and others that fit the bill.
However, middle-income earners are definitely losing out.
The saving grace is the $300 national energy bill relief every household across the country will receive from the federal government.
Overall though, it's not as good as the $1,000 energy rebate all Queensland households will be receiving from 1 July, or the $400 credit available to every WA resident from the new financial year.
Whether you're eligible for an energy rebate or not, you should 100% compare energy plans to see if you can save money with another provider. It's also a good shout to take advantage of sign-up deals before EOFY.