Minister Barr: Cost of living support for Canberrans
- Written by ACT Government
Released 03/07/2019
Canberrans will more easily be able to find discounts, rebates and other concessions through a new cost of living assistance website launched today.
Canberra is an inclusive, progressive and connected city but we know cost of living pressures weigh more heavily on some Canberrans than others. That’s why the government has concessions, rebates and payment plans make sure the everyday cost of living doesn’t derail the wellbeing of any family or individual.
Every year thousands of Canberrans access government assistance with ongoing expenses like housing, bills and transport, as well as unexpected costs like a funeral or new medical expenses.
Our updated Assistance website makes it easier for Canberrans to find information and apply for financial support.
Answering a few simple questions in the site’s new Savings Finder tool will bring up a list of savings that may be relevant to you.
Almost 30,000 people took up the ACT Government’s Utilities Concession in each of the last two financial years, receiving up to a $654 discount on their electricity bills.
Around 17,000 people accessed rebates and deferments to help with their rates bills in both 2016-17 and 2017-18, including over 15,000 pensioners and over 600 people facing financial hardship.
Other assistance you can find out about through the Assistance page includes:
- Discounted or free travel on buses and light rail
- Financial support for secondary students in low-income families
- Help to cover the upfront cost of a rental bond
- Paying fines in instalments.
Explore the updated Assistance website at www.act.gov.au/assistance.
- Statement ends -
Section: Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases
