Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Big M]

Only the gullible will swallow anything snake chalmer says. He and his sleazy boss created the financial mess we are all suffering. Everyone was warned repeatedly "IT WON'T BE EASY UNDER ALBANESE." Oh how true that has turned out to be. What about all the promises that this mob of turkeys made to get elected. All lies. Now, just like his boss, snake chalmer is off on another overseas holiday at tax payer's expense in the guise of attending meetings with financial leaders. Trying to impress, looking for cushy job offers and wining & dining more like it.

I think you will find that the Liberal Government made this mess and Labour have got a very hard job to clear it up!

 

[Jakepuss]

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

View attachment 17269

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.
I agree with the above statement and was so hoping to see bill credits!!! Cash handouts never go, to where they should go, look at a lot of the past handouts!
I also think that the once a year Energy Concession Payment should also be paid out as 'Credits', then the money will actually be used, as intended!!

Hear hear to that. Those getting 100k a year don't need energy help, excepting that the kids should turn off the power when they don't use it.

 

[Mina vriesekolk]

Prices of petrol has not come down at all in Qld. Yesterday unleaded petrol cost you $2.05 per liter. Labour promises you the world , just to get the votes , but no plans , no budget and taking Taxpayers money . Look at the frequent flights they do to many countries around the world and would not stay in budget accommodations. They can do video conferences , which makes it a lot more cheaper and don’t have to buy luxury meals in high class hotels.
Now they want to take money of our own superannuation. I call that stealing.

 

[Jennie]

"It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced."
I haven't noticed that yet, must be just in speical area's, Government Area's where the politicians live.

Wholesale price drop is to the companies we buy our power off, not to us just the retailers.

 

[Rhodie]

What they need to get rid of is the daily access charges, so we are only paying for the power we use. I got my mother's electricity bill today. She is an elderly lady with very low power usage (no computers or gaming machines etc). Her actual usage for the quarter is $131.70 and the daily supply charges are an extra $108.70. Her gas bill is the same, ie usage on last bill was $5.87 (she doesn't cook anymore)& daily charges were $117.24. This is what is making energy unaffordable. This is in Qld by the way.

Yes and in Queensland we cannot shop around for a supplier it is the one and only in most areas, Government owned Ergon.

 

[MindyMac]

I use two lamps with 40 watt limit on low bulb usage. Plus, one outdoor light for cats to eat and strays to come in and eat. But that outdoor light is turned off a.s.a.p tp cut costs. My tv and laptop also produce light for me to see.

Get low voltage use lamps and Halogen bulbs and whatever you do, turn off that air conditioner and do not use that heater, even oil heater otherwise one can expect a very expensive bill.

Think people, blankets & doonas and warm clothing are free. Your body heat will build up the heat you need. Winter bed sheets for winter as well. Get some good quality ones and use fabric softener to keep the winter sheets in top condition.

 

[Rhodie]

I use two lamps with 40 watt limit on low bulb usage. Plus, one outdoor light for cats to eat and strays to come in and eat. But that outdoor light is turned off a.s.a.p tp cut costs. My tv and laptop also produce light for me to see.

Get low voltage use lamps and Halogen bulbs and whatever you do, turn off that air conditioner and do not use that heater, even oil heater otherwise one can expect a very expensive bill.

Think people, blankets & doonas and warm clothing are free. Your body heat will build up the heat you need. Winter bed sheets for winter as well. Get some good quality ones and use fabric softener to keep the winter sheets in top condition.

You should not have to resort to this and our resource rich country. Anyone would think we live in a third world one!

 

[Ian Crane-Luff]

It's amazing that the government can find billions of dollars to buy submarines and missiles but wants everyone to tighten their belts because they can't afford Monday relief for people who live below the poverty line. I would also be interested to know if Mr. Chalmers and his staff are flying economy or first class on their taxpayer funded trip to the U.S. And they wonder why people don't trust politicians???

Like Albanese, they use the RAAF VIP fleet aircraft which is much more expensive than even first-class airline fares

 

[Capsam]

There is NO WAY we, the consumers have had a 41% reduction in OUR power prices this year! In a house without heating or cooling my power costs have increased by almost $800 since Labor came to office! Do something about cost of living - for REAL!

 

[Joydie]

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

View attachment 17269

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

I’ll begin by saying I’m a naturist. Not the type that enjoys communing with nature sans clothing, the type who believes in a force I call Mother Nature.
The next thing I’ll say is that I believe the anthropogenic global warming narrative to be the biggest fraud ever perpetrated on the human race. Many, many elites are growing very, very rich from their investments in windmills and solar panels, almost all of which are manufactured in China. One of those elites is the best Labor Prime Minister the Liberal Party ever produced - Malcolm Turnbull.

The earth has been many degrees hotter than this over the billions of years it’s been in existence. Antarctic rock core samples tell the truth - since its inception, the earth’s climate is constantly changing. It goes in cycles. At the moment, we’re coming out of an ice age. The fact that the earth is warming has almost nothing to do with humans. To believe that mere human beings are more powerful than the forces of Mother Nature, is arrogant in the extreme.

The media would have you believe that natural disasters are more prevalent. Statistics show that to be untrue - they’re simply reported on the news more. It’s a verifiable fact that deaths from natural disasters have dropped by 98% since 1900, but the media won’t tell you that.

Now to our electricity prices. We are paying more because of the billions of dollars every year being given to the renewable energy sector by the government.

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

View attachment 17269

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

 

[Joydie]

Sounds like a right-wing rant and is especially hilarious because it is the LNP mess we are cleaning up!

If you believe that, you’re in for a massive shock. IF Anthony Overseasie does give relief, which I doubt, it will come at a cost to something else.

If you still believe the climate change debate is about Australian politics, you should start doing some reading on what’s really going on outside our borders.

If you believe that renewables are the answer, consider this: hectare upon hectare of solar panels in a northern hemisphere winter under more than a metre of snow. They haven’t generated one watt since the first snowfall of winter. Or my personal favourite - the vast wind farm with every blade frozen in place and completely icebound. Fear not however! We have helicopters which are flying from windmill to windmill dumping petroleum products onto the motors to hopefully de-ice them.

The climate change debate has nothing to do with politics and everything to do with controlling energy.

 

[Lou5654]

Any relief would most welcome. What is most annoying is the blame game. This is happening now so don't go into blaming the previous government. Blaming others doesn't fix the problem. I don't know why Philip Lowe needs a taxpayer trip to the US he already knows how to put pressure on many families with no pressure for himself.

 

[Rick]

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

View attachment 17269

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

I trust that the energy credits will be applied Australia wide and not just to the Eastern States.

 

[Goddessof the Universe]

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

View attachment 17269

Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

I think money into our energy bills is very good idea because that's we're it should go so people do not spend it elsewhere

 

[Jakepuss]

Things have been pretty tough lately, and everyone is doing everything they can to keep their heads above water. The rising cost of living is putting a lot of pressure on families, and we all need a bit of a break.

The good news is that relief for rising power bills is on the way. The bad news is that it's unlikely to come in the form of cash handouts.

Federal treasurer Jim Chalmers said the government's upcoming budget would bring relief for rising power bills. However, he downplayed expectations that cash handouts would be available for people across Australia.

Last December, the states and Commonwealth struck a deal to rebadge the $1.5 billion economic security package, which will now be the ‘centrepiece’ of the upcoming budget. Treasurer Jim Chalmers described it as a part of the answer to Australians’ cost of living concerns.

‘We know that is a big part of the cost-of-living pressure that people are confronting right now. We'll try and take the edge off that where we can, but we’ve got to do it in a responsible way,’ he shared with reporters.

Mr Chalmers also added that they are going through the issues in a ‘methodical way’ so that the budget can meet all of the demands.

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Mr Chalmers said relief for rising energy bills would be a key feature in the upcoming budget. Credit: Rodolfo Clix/Pexels

The price relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits instead of cash handouts. This will be available to people who are on income support, or pensions, recipients of the family tax benefit, and to small businesses.

However, those who were hoping for further handouts could be left disappointed as Mr Chalmers emphasised there will be spending cuts in the upcoming budget.

He said: ‘We have indicated that we will be trimming spending further in the May budget, but that's so that we can make room to fund the things that we value, whether it’s health care or aged care, the NDIS, protecting our borders and our national security.’

The budget plan – which included a price cap on gas and coal prices – was announced late last year. It was aimed at bringing down the skyrocketing energy prices.

‘Our plan is designed to take some of the edge off these energy price rises, and we're really encouraged to see that's the case,’ Mr Chalmers told reporters at the time.

According to market analysis research, big electricity price increases expected in 2023 dropped ‘significantly’ since the federal government revealed its market intervention plans.

It also showed a wholesale price drop of 41 per cent in NSW, 46 per cent in Queensland, 34 per cent in Victoria, and 48 per cent in South Australia in early February compared to November of last year – before the price caps were announced.

View attachment 17270

According to previous reports, a $1.5bn package to help with energy prices. Credit: Oronzo Roberti/Pexels

But with the financial pressure that many across the country are facing, it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up with energy costs. In one instance, a third-generation family business is about to face a $900,000 power bill increase.

Nippy’s, a family business with three different manufacturing sites in South Australia, is currently paying $916,000 a year on their current three-year electricity plan. But their latest quote revealed a staggering $1.7 million per year electricity contract – a 95 per cent increase from their current quote. Now, aside from the burden of having to find an extra $900,000 to pay for electricity, the business is also worried about passing on the costs to customers to stay afloat.

You can read more about this story here.

Mr Chalmers is set to travel to the U.S. this week to attend a series of meetings with global financial leaders, including U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, to discuss various international outlooks.

The Treasurer will be accompanied by Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe and Treasury Secretary Steven Kennedy. All three will head to Washington D.C. for the G20 finance ministers and central bank governors’ meeting.

The Federal Treasurer flagged the trip as a crucial meeting that will help shape the May 9 budget.

‘This is a challenging and complex time for the global economy. One of the defining influences on the budget that I hand down in May will be this global economic uncertainty. So, this quick brief visit to confer with my counterparts couldn’t be better timed,’ he said.

Key Takeaways

• Relief for rising power bills will be a key feature of the upcoming budget, with a $1.5bn package announced.
• The relief will be applied directly to power bills as credits for eligible people and small businesses.
• Treasurer Jim Chalmers downplayed expectations of further cash handouts, instead flagging spending cuts in other areas.
• Chalmers will attend meetings with global financial leaders in the US this week for discussions on the international outlook, which will influence the May 9 budget.

What are your thoughts on the government’s plan? Let us know in the comments below!

And that's as it ought to be.
High income, high living people don't need government assistance re energy prices, or anything else for that matter!

 

[I'm Mal]

Sounds like a right-wing rant and is especially hilarious because it is the LNP mess we are cleaning up!

Oh Dear, straight from the left wing instruction manual. Ye knowest nought of what ye typeth.

 

[I'm Mal]

So you are saying that the COALition weren't doing the same things you accuse Labor of doing? Are you serious?

That is correct. I am sure you are very well aware that only since the LIEbor circus weaseled their way into office, things have gone bad. Just as we were all warned the would. If you cannot see that then you have had the LIEbor ROM firmly implanted.

 

[Brian Clarke]

That is correct. I am sure you are very well aware that only since the LIEbor circus weaseled their way into office, things have gone bad. Just as we were all warned the would. If you cannot see that then you have had the LIEbor ROM firmly implanted.

You are dreaming and it is a nightmare. Tell me how did Labor weasel their way into office? I bet you love donald trump as well.

 

[Joydie]

You are dreaming and it is a nightmare. Tell me how did Labor weasel their way into office? I bet you love donald trump as well.

Are views which differ from yours not allowed? And could you please tell me what Donald Trump has to do with the fact that many people will be cold this winter because of the renewable energy scam.

 

[I'm Mal]

You are dreaming and it is a nightmare. Tell me how did Labor weasel their way into office? I bet you love donald trump as well.

Not dreaming at all. labour lied their way into office but it appears that you are too gullible to recognise that. Your mate airbus, couldn't even answer basic questions and we are STILL waiting for "the plan". Can't even answer basic questions about the voice and have broken every election promise. I bet you love Vladimir Putin as well.