Energy cost relief: Embedded networks reforms welcomed & raise the Utility Relief Grant Scheme to $4000
Consumer Action Law Centre CEO Stephanie Tonkin has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement of changes to the law to ensure that consumers in embedded networks will be able to access more affordable energy in the future.
“This is a positive step and should prevent some financial hardship we observe on our frontlines. Our financial counsellors report that some consumers on embedded networks are paying more for their energy bills as they have no ability to switch or choose retailers.”
In addition to limited choice and higher prices, Ms Tonkin described that many people on embedded networks experiencing financial hardship cannot access appropriate assistance from their energy providers, despite this being a right under the Energy Retail Code of Practice.
“This has to change if the Energy Retail Code of Practice is to work as it should for all consumers in financial difficulty. The Energy Retail Code of Practice is being reviewed right now, and with embedded networks in focus, extending all assistance provisions to these customers will provide much needed support to Victorians trapped in energy poverty.
Ms Tonkin said that in a cost-of-living crisis, the Victorian Government also needs to revisit the Utility Relief Grant Scheme – a targeted relief measure that has remained static for years.
“Energy debt is one of the top presenting issues from people who call the National Debt Helpline and last October the average level of energy debt from Victorian callers was $4264, that amount is $1000 more than the previous October- and the highest ever recorded.
“I am calling on the Victorian Government to broaden the eligibility criteria for the Utility Relief Grant Scheme and to make it more flexible, allowing consumers to apply the grant to any utility, up to an increased value of $4000,” she said.
“This change alone would make a real and positive difference to Victorians doing it tough,” she said.
ENDS
Media contact: Mark Pearce, mark@consumeraction.org.au Tel: 0413 299 567
