$500 up for grabs? Here’s what the new cost-of-living boost could mean for you
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With the cost of living continuing to climb, every dollar saved feels like a small victory—especially when it comes to those unavoidable household expenses.
But what if we told you there’s a way for thousands of Aussies to pocket up to $500, simply by upgrading one of the most-used appliances in the home?
That’s right—thanks to a new government initiative, eligible Aussies can swap their old washing machine for a brand-new, energy-efficient model at a fraction of the usual price.
A Win for Your Wallet and the Environment
The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has launched the Washing Machine Exchange Program, designed to help low-income households save big on both their energy and water bills.
Here’s how it works: for just $250, eligible residents can trade in their old top-loader washing machine and receive a brand-new Westinghouse 8kg front-loader, which retails for $749. That’s a whopping $499 off the retail price!
But the savings don’t stop there. These new machines are so efficient that households can expect to save up to $250 per year on their energy and water bills.
Why the Focus on Top Loaders?
If you’re wondering why only top-loader machines are eligible for exchange, there’s a good reason.
According to DCCEEW, older top loaders can be up to 60% less efficient than modern front loaders when it comes to water and energy use. That means they’re not just harder on your wallet—they’re tougher on the environment, too.
By making the switch, you’ll be helping to conserve precious water (up to 20,000 litres per year, according to NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson) and reduce your household’s carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for your budget and the planet.
Also read: Are You Unknowingly Exposing Your Family to Deadly Pathogens in This Common Home Appliance?
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to NSW residents over the age of 18 who hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or Low Income Card from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. You’ll also need to have an old top-loader washing machine that you’re willing to exchange.
If you tick all those boxes, you’re in with a chance to score one of the 8,000 Westinghouse EasyCare 8kg front-loaders available through the program.
The Good Guys have partnered with DCCEEW to provide, deliver, and install the new machines—all for the same $250 fee. Plus, you’ll get a two-year warranty for peace of mind.
How to Apply and What to Consider
Ready to make the switch? Applying is simple—just head to the official Washing Machine Exchange Program website and follow the instructions.
Before you apply, though, make sure to check the dimensions of the new machine to ensure it’ll fit comfortably in your laundry space.
And don’t worry about what happens to your old washer. The Good Guys will take it away and recycle it responsibly, so you can feel good about reducing landfill waste as well.
In case you missed it: Heard about this $400 payout for hot water? Here’s who actually gets it
Have you taken advantage of a government rebate or appliance swap program before? Are you planning to apply for this one? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below!
But what if we told you there’s a way for thousands of Aussies to pocket up to $500, simply by upgrading one of the most-used appliances in the home?
That’s right—thanks to a new government initiative, eligible Aussies can swap their old washing machine for a brand-new, energy-efficient model at a fraction of the usual price.
A Win for Your Wallet and the Environment
The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) has launched the Washing Machine Exchange Program, designed to help low-income households save big on both their energy and water bills.
Here’s how it works: for just $250, eligible residents can trade in their old top-loader washing machine and receive a brand-new Westinghouse 8kg front-loader, which retails for $749. That’s a whopping $499 off the retail price!
But the savings don’t stop there. These new machines are so efficient that households can expect to save up to $250 per year on their energy and water bills.
Thousands of low-income NSW residents can upgrade their old top-loader washing machines to a new energy- and water-efficient Westinghouse front-loader for just $250, thanks to a state government initiative. Image source: Scott Evans / Unsplash.
Why the Focus on Top Loaders?
If you’re wondering why only top-loader machines are eligible for exchange, there’s a good reason.
According to DCCEEW, older top loaders can be up to 60% less efficient than modern front loaders when it comes to water and energy use. That means they’re not just harder on your wallet—they’re tougher on the environment, too.
By making the switch, you’ll be helping to conserve precious water (up to 20,000 litres per year, according to NSW Minister for Water Rose Jackson) and reduce your household’s carbon footprint. It’s a win-win for your budget and the planet.
Also read: Are You Unknowingly Exposing Your Family to Deadly Pathogens in This Common Home Appliance?
Who Can Apply?
The program is open to NSW residents over the age of 18 who hold a valid Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or Low Income Card from Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. You’ll also need to have an old top-loader washing machine that you’re willing to exchange.
If you tick all those boxes, you’re in with a chance to score one of the 8,000 Westinghouse EasyCare 8kg front-loaders available through the program.
The Good Guys have partnered with DCCEEW to provide, deliver, and install the new machines—all for the same $250 fee. Plus, you’ll get a two-year warranty for peace of mind.
How to Apply and What to Consider
Ready to make the switch? Applying is simple—just head to the official Washing Machine Exchange Program website and follow the instructions.
Before you apply, though, make sure to check the dimensions of the new machine to ensure it’ll fit comfortably in your laundry space.
And don’t worry about what happens to your old washer. The Good Guys will take it away and recycle it responsibly, so you can feel good about reducing landfill waste as well.
In case you missed it: Heard about this $400 payout for hot water? Here’s who actually gets it
Have you taken advantage of a government rebate or appliance swap program before? Are you planning to apply for this one? Share your experiences, tips, or questions in the comments below!
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