Energy assistance for Queenslanders in financial emergency

power costs, electricity costs

The Queensland Government has made changes to the Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme (HEEAS) to make it easier for low-income households to access.

Energy Minister Mark Bailey said reforms implemented by the Palaszczuk Government will modernise the application process for HEEAS and reduce the administrative burden for applicants.

“HEEAS helps low-income households who are in short-term financial difficulty because of unexpected, emergency expenses to get back on their feet through a one-off payment of up to $720 towards their energy account,” Mr Bailey said.

“The HEEAS application form has been simplified and shortened, and is now able to be provided electronically for customers if they wish.

“We are also providing the improved HEEAS application form directly to community groups and financial counselling organisations, enabling eligible customers to more conveniently complete an application with the help of their community support networks.”

The HEEAS Guidelines also have been clarified to enable customers who are on-supplied electricity in their multi-dwelling premises, such as by their body corporate or manufactured homes operator to better access the scheme.

“As a result of these improvements, more Queenslanders in short-term financial distress will be able to access help,” Mr Bailey said.

 

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