Cost-of-living measures in State Budget will make a positive difference
Consumer Action Law Centre CEO, Stephanie Tonkin has welcomed the cost-of-living measures announced in the Victorian State Budget saying they will make a ‘positive difference’ in the lives of many people that call the organisation’s front lines for help.
“Cost-of-living relief was the Government’s headline for this budget, and I am pleased there are some meaningful inclusions that will help Victorians manage these pressures,” Ms Tonkin said.
“Targeted energy bill relief and help with school costs, free public transport for young people and seniors on the weekends, these are some of the daily expenses we hear about from callers to the National Debt Helpline every day.
“I have no doubt these measures will be welcome for many of the people we help who are navigating financial difficulty,” she said.
“Funding for extension of Solar Victoria rebates to support Victorians to install energy efficient heat pumps and solar hot water will help bring down energy bills, and increased funding for the No Interest Loan Scheme will help more Victorians who need access to money to pay for unexpected expenses.”
Ms Tonkin added that she was pleased that Mortgage Stress Victoria has received solid multi-year funding.
“This couldn’t come at a better time with mortgage stress a frequent and persistent problem presenting on our frontlines.
“While today’s announcement will deliver some relief for Victorians dealing with cost-of-living pressures, there is still much more to be done, and still much more to do to get to the heart of cost-of-living issues in Victoria, including some bold decisions… and we look forward to working constructively with the Victorian Government to do more to support people who are struggling,” Ms Tonkin concluded.
ENDS
Media contact: Mark Pearce mark@consumeraction.org.au Tel: 0413 299 567
