Tasmanians will incur an 85 per cent increase per hour in power prices if the Rockliff minority Government continues to ignore the impact increased energy costs are having on families.
Submissions to the Australian Energy Regulator on TasNetwork’s 2024-2029 revenue reset, clearly demonstrates that no consideration has been given on how price increases will hit Tasmanians hard when they are already struggling with the cost of living crisis.
Changes to the tariff structure will see T31 and T41 become obsolete from July 1, 2024, meaning families will be forced to make more difficult decisions between heating and eating, or purchasing vital medications.
Braddon Labor Candidate Adrian Luke said this was typical of the Rockliff minority Government imposing a tax grab by stealth.
“In a cost of living crisis, where people are struggling due to increases in interest rates, groceries and petrol prices, this is just another kick in the guts for those doing it tough,” he said.
“The old Hydro Heat tariff provided electric heating and hot water at the rate of 19.47 cents per kWh. This rate was the same 24 /7.
“Now, when Tasmanians come to heat their homes, they will be paying a rate of 36.19 cents kWh, which represents a massive 85 per cent increase per hour.”
Tasmanians are drowning in the cost of living crisis and need urgent action is needed now.
Energy Minister Nick Duigan must ensure that this massive energy increase is abandoned so Tasmanians can afford to turn on their heaters this winter.
It is time for Tasmanians to pay a Tasmanian price for Tasmanian power and the only way this will happen is to elect a Labor Government.
A Labor Government will set Tasmania up for the future and will cap power prices at 2.5 per cent a year for all households and small businesses. We will also re-establish the electricity rebate scheme that was in place in 2018.
Shane Broad MP
Shadow Treasurer
