In an effort to alleviate the financial burden of rising energy costs, the Australian Government has allocated $3.5 billion to extend and expand the Energy Bill Relief Fund for the 2024-25 financial year.
This initiative aims to provide electricity bill rebates to Australian households and eligible small businesses, building upon the $1.5 billion provided in 2023-24.
Overview of the Energy Bill Relief Fund 2024-25
The Energy Bill Relief Fund offers financial assistance to both households and small businesses to help manage electricity expenses. The rebates are applied directly to electricity bills, reducing the overall cost for consumers.
Eligibility Criteria
Households:
- Residency: Must be located in Australia and have an active electricity account.
- Electricity Connection: Must be connected to the grid, including households in external and non-self-governing territories.
Small Businesses:
- Active ABN: Must possess an active Australian Business Number (ABN).
- Electricity Consumption: Must meet the state’s definition of a ‘small customer’ based on annual electricity consumption thresholds.
Rebate Amounts and Distribution
Households:
- Total Rebate: Up to $300 annually.
- Distribution: Applied in quarterly installments of $75 each throughout the 2024-25 financial year.
Small Businesses:
- Total Rebate: Up to $325 annually.
- Distribution: Applied in quarterly installments of $81.25 each throughout the 2024-25 financial year.
| State/Territory | Annual Consumption Threshold (MWh) |
|---|---|
| NSW | 100 |
| VIC | 40 |
| QLD | 100 |
| WA | 50 |
| SA | 160 |
| TAS | 150 |
| ACT | 100 |
| NT | 160 |
Application Process
Automatic Application:
Most eligible households and small businesses will receive the rebate automatically:
- Electricity Retailer Customers: The rebate will be applied directly to electricity bills by the provider.
Manual Application:
Customers in embedded networks (e.g., those receiving electricity from a strata or landlord in a caravan park, apartment building, or retirement village) may need to apply manually:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm eligibility based on the criteria outlined above.
- Gather Documentation: Prepare necessary documents, such as proof of residency and electricity invoices.
- Submit Application: Follow the application process specified by your state or territory government.
Important Dates
Rebates will be applied quarterly, with eligibility determined on the following census dates:
- Quarter 1: 31 July 2024
- Quarter 2: 1 October 2024
- Quarter 3: 1 January 2025
- Quarter 4: 1 April 2025
Additional Support
Beyond the Energy Bill Relief Fund, additional concessions may be available:
- State and Territory Rebates: Various regions offer additional rebates for eligible residents.
- Concession Card Holders: Individuals with concession cards or those receiving government payments may qualify for further assistance.
The Energy Bill Relief Fund 2024-25 provides essential financial support to Australian households and small businesses struggling with rising electricity costs.
With automatic rebates of $300 for households and $325 for small businesses, eligible recipients can reduce their energy expenses. Ensuring account accuracy and monitoring bills will help beneficiaries receive timely relief throughout the year.
FAQs
How will I know if I have received the Energy Bill Relief payment?
The rebate will appear as a credit on your electricity bill, typically labeled as ‘Australian Government Energy Bill Relief’ or a similar description.
Do I need to apply for the rebate if I am in an embedded network?
Yes, households and small businesses in embedded networks may need to apply manually. Refer to your state or territory’s guidelines for the application process.
What should I do if I haven’t received my rebate?
If the rebate does not appear on your electricity bill after the relevant census date, contact your electricity provider or the appropriate state or territory government department for assistance.