To address rising electricity costs, the Australian Government has announced the extension and expansion of the Energy Bill Relief Fund for the 2024-25 fiscal year. With a substantial investment of $3.5 billion, this initiative will provide electricity bill rebates to all Australian households and eligible small businesses. Building on the $1.5 billion allocated in the previous year, the expanded fund aims to offer widespread financial relief amid ongoing economic challenges.
The rebates, distributed through electricity providers and coordinated with state and territory governments, are designed to reach households and small businesses efficiently, offering direct savings on energy bills.
Table of Contents
Eligibility
- General Eligibility: All Australian households, including those in external and non-self-governing territories, qualify for the $300 annual rebate.
- Automatic Application: Most households will have the rebate applied directly to their electricity bills in quarterly instalments of $75.
- Embedded Networks: Households in embedded networks (e.g., caravan parks, apartments, or retirement villages) must apply for the rebate through their state or territory government.
Small Businesses
- General Eligibility: Small businesses must meet their state or territory’s definition of a “small customer,” typically based on annual electricity consumption.
- Consumption Thresholds: The eligibility thresholds vary by region:
| State/Territory | Consumption Threshold (MWh) |
|---|---|
| New South Wales (NSW) | 100 |
| Victoria (VIC) | 40 |
| Queensland (QLD) | 100 |
| South Australia (SA) | 160 |
| Tasmania (TAS) | 150 |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) | 100 |
| Northern Territory (NT) | 160 |
| Western Australia (WA) | 50 |
- Rebate Amount: Eligible small businesses receive a $325 annual rebate applied automatically in quarterly instalments.
- Embedded Networks: Businesses in embedded networks must apply for the rebate through their respective state or territory government.
Rebate Distribution
- Federal Rebate: All households receive a $300 annual rebate, paid in four quarterly instalments of $75.
- State-Specific Additional Rebates: Some states provide supplementary rebates to enhance financial support:
| State | Federal Rebate | State Rebate | Total Annual Rebate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Queensland | $300 | $1,000 | $1,300 |
| Western Australia | $300 | $400 | $700 |
- Additional State Rebate Payments:
- Queensland residents receive the $1,000 rebate upfront.
- Western Australia residents receive $400 in two instalments of $350 each during July-August and December-January billing cycles.
Small Businesses
Eligible small businesses benefit from a $325 annual rebate distributed in four equal instalments applied directly to their electricity bills.
Application Process
For most households and businesses, rebates are automatically applied to electricity accounts by their providers, ensuring a seamless process.
Manual Applications
- Embedded Networks: Those in caravan parks, apartment buildings, retirement villages, or shopping centres must apply for the rebate through their state or territory government.
- Western Australia Specifics: Households without Synergy or Horizon Power accounts must apply for rebates via RevenueWA starting in July 2024.
Government’s Commitment
The extension and expansion of the Energy Bill Relief Fund demonstrate the government’s dedication to alleviating energy costs for Australians. By offering direct rebates, this initiative not only reduces financial pressure but also ensures that small businesses and households can better manage their electricity expenses.
Whether through automatic rebates or state-administered applications, the program is designed to provide relief efficiently, especially to those in complex billing situations.
This $3.5 billion investment underscores the government’s long-term vision of supporting Australians during economic challenges, ensuring financial stability, and fostering resilience against rising living costs.
FAQs
How much is the household energy rebate?
The household rebate is $300 annually, paid in $75 quarterly instalments.
Who is eligible for the small business rebate?
Small businesses meeting state-defined electricity usage thresholds.
Do I need to apply for the rebate?
Most rebates are automatic; embedded network users must apply.
What is Queensland’s additional rebate?
Queensland offers a $1,000 state rebate, totaling $1,300 annually.
When does the WA rebate require manual application?
Households without Synergy or Horizon accounts must apply via RevenueWA.
