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Melina Bath criticises Labor's Power Saving Bonus cuts, saying most struggling families miss out on energy bill reliefFrom 25 August, the Power Saving Bonus drops to $100 and is limited to concession holders, drawing criticism for excluding many struggling Eastern Victorian households amid rising energy bills. By news@gippsland - 11th August 2025 - Back to News Fewer Eastern Victorian households will benefit from the Power Saving Bonus after the Allan Labor government's reduced the amount and eligibility despite energy bills continuing to climb. From 25 August, Round 5 of the program offers only a $100 rebate, down from $250 - and it is now restricted to concession card holders only. 
From 25 August, the Power Saving Bonus drops to $100 for concession holders only, excluding many struggling Eastern Victorian households from support Energy support shortfallThe Nationals Member for Eastern Victoria, Melina Bath, said the cut exposes Labor's failure to support all struggling families. "The limited PSB offers only minor relief to a select few, while most households are left behind. Working families, retirees without concession cards, and low-income earners are doing it tough and will this time receive no help from Labor on their energy bill." "The real issue is that, despite repeated promises of cheaper power through renewable energy, Labor's policies have only driven energy bills higher. Labor promised cheaper power, but the reality is stark - bills keep climbing and families are paying the price," Ms Bath said. Digital access barriersMs Bath also criticised the digital only application process, which disadvantages people without internet access. "Our local neighbourhood houses have stepped in to help residents navigate the system. I encourage all eligible residents to contact their local neighbourhood house or my office for support if they are struggling to apply using the online system." The PSB is available to electricity account holders with a Health Care Card, Pensioner or Veterans' Affairs Concession Card, or a DVA Gold Card. Applications open 25 August 2025 online at Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website. Pictures from Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water website.
Source: http://gippsland.com/ Published by: news@gippsland.com
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