The Budget update released by the Treasurer yesterday shows that the Rockliff Liberal Government is making provision for an additional energy relief package to help Tasmanians with cost-of-living pressures.
”That is what good governments do – plan, be transparent and follow-through,” Minister Barnett said.
”The Revised Estimates Report includes a provision of $33 million in the Forward Estimates against our estimated contribution to the National Energy Bill Relief program, which is currently being negotiated with the Australian Government and is expected to contribute towards further targeted support for those households and small businesses that need it the most.
”The detail of this new package is expected to be finalised once negotiated through National Cabinet and Federal Treasurers.
”What we do know is that without our willingness to pursue this with the Federal Government, and without our persistence in calling on them to address this national issue as they promised at their election, we would not be in a position to be able to partner with them on a new package.
”While we have the most generous electricity concessions of any State at $44.9 million in 2022-23, we have always said that we were prepared to do more to help Tasmanian households and businesses.
”This new package will build on our Winter Bill Buster discount of $180 provided last year to more than 94,000 eligible concession customers, in addition to our $50 million Energy Saver Loan schemes covering households and small businesses and up to $2.7 million in hardship support for Aurora customers.
”And we announced just before Christmas a further $50 million loan scheme for larger commercial and industrial electricity users, which is currently being designed in consultation with industry.
”In contrast, Labor has failed to engage with their masters in Canberra, missing an opportunity to shape any policies for the benefit of Tasmanians.
”Instead, they play politics on a blunt electricity price cap that will do nothing but drive retailers to the wall, result in a smaller discount for most concession card holders and risk the investment we need to see new renewable energy generation in this State to meet the needs of our growing economy and create more jobs,” Minister Barnett said.
