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Danny O'Brien says reduced bonus helps some, but bungled energy policies and digital-only access hurt households

The state's Power Saving Bonus has been cut from $250 to $100 and is now limited to concession card holders, leaving many Gippsland households without relief despite rising energy costs.

By news@gippsland - 8th August 2025 - Back to News

Fewer Gippsland households will be able to apply for a much-reduced Power Saving Bonus from the state government, despite energy prices continuing to rise. Round 5 of the program opens on 25 August 2025 but has been reduced to just $100, down from the previous $250 and is now only available to certain concession card holders.

Danny O'Brien says the reduced $100 bonus offers limited relief for concession holders, while Allan Labor's failed energy policies keep driving household costs higher

Rising energy costs

The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O'Brien said while the reduced payments will benefit those eligible, the Allan Labor government's bungled energy policies are continuing to cost many households.

"This bonus will provide a small amount of relief for those who qualify, but only concession card holders are eligible. Meanwhile, the average household continues to face rising costs across the board with no assistance at all from the government."

"Many working families, retirees without concession cards and low-income earners are doing it just as tough but are being left out every time. The bigger problem is that despite repeated claims that its renewable energy policies will deliver cheaper power, Victorians are only seeing their energy bills rise under Labor," Mr O'Brien said.

Digital access barrier

Mr O'Brien also raised concerns that, once again, there is no option to apply for the power saving bonus without internet access. "It is an ongoing frustration with the Allan Labor government that people who aren't online are expected to navigate a digital-only system."

I'm very grateful to our hardworking local neighbourhood and community houses who continue to step-up and help residents complete their applications. I encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to get in touch with their local neighbourhood house or my office for support with an application," Mr O'Brien said.

The $100 Power Saving Bonus is available to Victorian electricity account holders who hold a Health Care Card, Pensioner or Veterans' Affairs Pensioner Concession Card or Department of Veterans' Affairs Gold Card. Applications open on 25 August and must be completed online at Victorian Energy Compare website.

Pictures from Danny O'Brien MP Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com