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Utility Concession Changes - Don’T Get Caught Short

Changes to the provision of utility concessions have been poorly advertised by the Brumby government and may catch eligible customers unawares, local MP Russell Northe said today.

By Russell Northe - 6th July 2009 - Back to News

Concession card holders are no longer able to simply present their card at Australia Post to receive a concession on their water, gas and electricity bills; a fact Mr Northe believes many would be surprised to learn.

"Whereas utility bills used to show two amounts for householders – both full and concession – from this month, the reduced rates will only appear on the bills of those pre-registered as concession card holders with their utility companies," Mr Northe explained.

"The changes introduced by the Brumby Labor Government will see customers who have not provided their concession card details directly to each of their providers, miss out on their discount."

Mr Northe said the there are fears that up to 40 percent of eligible concession card holders could be caught out, including the most vulnerable in our community.

"If you are a pensioner, health care or gold card holder and are eligible for utility concessions, I urge you to phone your water, gas and electricity providers to register your details," he said.

"There has been a real lack of information about these changes and I encourage people to find out exactly what assistance is available to them, and how to apply, or they will miss out."

"The Brumby government are very adept at running campaigns to sell themselves but appear to have dropped the ball when it comes to informing our community of these important changes."

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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