Cost of living: 36,000 Gold Coasters missing out on $1000 electricity bill concessions
More than 36,000 Gold Coasters are missing out on getting more than $1000 cut to their electricity bills, with new data revealing the suburbs they live in. SEE THE LIST
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More than 36,000 Gold Coasters are missing out on getting more than $1000 cut to their electricity bills, state government figures reveal.
An extra $700 electricity rebate was announced in June’s state budget on top of the existing $372 concession.
However new state government data reveals tens of thousands of eligible people – seniors, veterans or concession card holders – have yet to take up.
The Gold Coast postcode with the highest number of unclaimed power concessions is 4207, taking in Staplyton, and Stieglitz in the city’s far north, followed by 4209, taking in the rapidly growing suburbs of Coomera, Upper Coomera and Pimpama.
Rounding out the top three was 4211, taking in Nerang, Gilston, Gaven and Pacific Pines in the Gold Coast Hinterland.
Energy Minister Mick de Brenni urged anyone who might be eligible for the money to put their hands up.
“We’re supporting our most vulnerable Queenslanders and calling on the community to do the same,” he said.
“I’d encourage all Gold Coasters to reach out to their mum and dad, their grandparents, neighbours and friends and tell them to check if they’re eligible for this $1072 cost of living relief.
“If you think you may be eligible, it’s as simple as contacting your energy provider and registering your seniors, veterans or concession card to your account.”
More than $1.4bn was committed to extra bill relief in the state budget as one of a raft of cost-of-living measures.
While older people and concession card holders received the bulk of assistance, individually metered small businesses received a $650m bill rebate if they used less than 100 megawatt-hours of electricity annually.
Gold Coast-based Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said there were resources available to check eligibility.
“We’re supporting Queenslanders at a time we know many are feeling the financial pinch, and encourage all Gold Coasters to reach out to their family, friends and broader community to help spread the word about this cost of living relief.
“We urge all residents of the Gold Coast to check if they’re eligible for this additional cost of living relief.
“You can check your eligibility status online through the concessions finder website, or contact your energy provider.”
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