The Australian Government has expanded its Energy Bill Relief Fund to $3.5 billion for the 2024-25 fiscal year, aiming to lower electricity costs for households and small businesses.
This initiative builds on the previous year’s $1.5 billion allocation, offering greater financial relief as Australians face rising living expenses. Here’s what you need to know about the rebate, who qualifies, and how to claim it.
$400 Energy Bill Rebate
The Energy Bill Rebate is a direct financial aid program designed to ease electricity costs for eligible households and small businesses. The rebate is applied automatically to most electricity bills, ensuring accessibility and convenience.
State and territory governments manage the program in partnership with electricity providers, facilitating seamless distribution of benefits.
Eligibility
For Households
- General Eligibility: All Australian households, including those in non-self-governing territories, qualify for the rebate.
- Automatic Application: A $300 annual rebate is applied in four quarterly installments of $75 each, directly reducing electricity bills.
- Embedded Networks: Households in caravan parks, apartment complexes, or retirement villages with unique billing arrangements must apply through their state or territory government.
For Small Businesses
- Eligibility Criteria: Small businesses must meet the “small customer” definition, based on annual electricity consumption thresholds, which vary by state.
- New South Wales: 100 MWh
- Western Australia: 50 MWh
- Exclusions: Businesses exceeding these consumption limits are not eligible.
- Embedded Networks: Small businesses operating within embedded networks (e.g., shopping centers) must apply through their state or territory government.
Rebate Amounts
The rebate varies based on location and customer type.
Household Rebate
| Rebate Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Rebate | $300/year | Paid in four quarterly installments of $75 |
| Queensland Additional | $1,000/year | Paid upfront, bringing the total rebate to $1,300 |
| Western Australia Additional | $400/year | Paid in two installments of $350 each |
Small Business Rebate
| Rebate Type | Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Rebate | $325/year | Paid in four quarterly installments |
How to Claim
For most eligible households and businesses, the rebate is automatically applied to their electricity bills by their providers.
Application Process
For those with complex billing arrangements:
- State/Territory Applications: Households and businesses in embedded networks must apply directly through their state or territory government.
- Western Australia: If a household does not have an account with Synergy or Horizon Power, they must apply through RevenueWA starting in July.
Initiative
With the cost of living increasing, the Energy Bill Relief Fund provides crucial financial support to Australians. This initiative plays a vital role in:
- Reducing Economic Stress: Lowering electricity bills eases financial burdens on households and small businesses.
- Ensuring Equitable Access: Rebate availability extends to all eligible Australians, including those in embedded networks.
- Simplifying the Process: Automatic application for most recipients minimizes administrative hassles.
- Supporting Small Businesses: Lower electricity costs help businesses remain competitive.
By expanding this rebate program, the government is addressing immediate financial challenges while reinforcing its commitment to affordable energy for all Australians.
