State’s leading energy provider supporting Tasmanians through coronavirus pandemic

Aurora customers will have access to payment plans, bill relief, the waiving of fees and charges and more as part of a new support fund.

The state’s largest energy retailer is taking measures to help Tasmanians in their time of need.

A $5 million COVID-19 Support Fund has been established by Aurora Energy to help Tasmanian residents and small businesses impacted by the pandemic through payment plans, freezing debts, bill relief, and the waiving of fees and charges.

This comes after Premier Peter Gutwein’s announcement of a Social and Economic Support Package from the State Government, which included a price increase freeze for 12 months on energy bills and a 100 per cent waiver for the next bill for small businesses after 1 April.

Chief executive Rebecca Kardos said Aurora was committed to supporting both its customers and the community during these challenging times.

Aurora Energy CEO, Rebecca Kardos. Picture: SAM ROSEWARNE.

“These are extraordinary circumstances but Tasmanians can be assured we’re doing, and we’ll continue to do, what we can to help our customers and our community through these tough times,” she said.

“We’re proud to be Tasmanian and we will work closely with every Aurora customer affected by COVID-19 to support and assist them, with the aim to alleviate some of the stress they may be feeling.”

Mrs Kardos said Aurora had expanded its community fund to accept applications for equipment needed to work remotely and for other changes required to working arrangements.

Its Digital Capacity Building Grants have also been extended to assist community groups in offering remote service delivery, and a Customer Support Program has also been set up to help small businesses and residential customers.

Aurora has also taken action to keep its employees safe.

“Social distancing plays a big part in this and that’s why we’re proud to say as of this week, the majority of our workforce are now working remotely,” Mrs Kardos said.

“We will be open for business but instead of calling into our Hobart or Launceston offices, customers will be speaking to our team in the safety of their homes.”