Energy Concessions and Rebates Available to Australians in 2025
In 2026, many Australian households are feeling the pinch of higher living costs. The good news is that billions of dollars in government support are available to help lower your power bills.
If you have a concession card, a medical condition, or even just a standard household account, you might be eligible for hundreds of dollars in “free” credits to offset your energy expenses.
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1. Federal “Energy Bill Relief” (For Everyone)
Following the 2025–26 Federal Budget, the Australian Government extended the Energy Bill Relief Fund to provide targeted support through the end of 2025.
- The Benefit: Most households receive $150 in total relief for the 2025–26 financial year.
- How it Works: In most states, you do not need to apply. The relief is typically split into two $75 credits applied automatically to your electricity bills (based on July and October 2025 census dates).
- Embedded Networks: If you live in an apartment block, caravan park, or retirement village where you are billed by a landlord or strata, you must apply directly through your state government website to receive the credit.
2. 2026 State-by-State Concession Guide
If you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, or DVA Gold Card, you are eligible for significant ongoing discounts.
State | Primary Electricity Rebate | Additional Support |
NSW | Low Income Household Rebate: ~$285/year. | Seniors Energy Rebate: $200 (for self-funded retirees). |
VIC | Annual Electricity Concession: 17.5% off usage/supply. | Power Saving Bonus: $100 one-off payment for comparing plans. |
QLD | Electricity Rebate: ~$386/year. | Reticulated Natural Gas Rebate: ~$92/year. |
SA | Energy Bill Concession: Up to ~$230/year. | Cost of Living Concession: ~$261.90 yearly payment. |
WA | Energy Assistance Payment: ~$326/year. | Dependent Child Rebate: ~$146 per child, per year. |
3. Medical and Hardship Support
Life happens, and extra help is available for those with specific health needs or temporary financial crises.
- Medical Cooling/Heating: If you have a condition (like MS or Parkinson’s) requiring constant climate control, you can claim a rebate ranging from $285 (NSW) to over $520 (QLD) per year.
- Life Support Rebate: Users of kidney dialysis, oxygen concentrators, or ventilators are entitled to daily rebates to cover the high power usage of these machines.
- Emergency Assistance: If you are in an immediate crisis, emergency programs can help clear significant debt:
- NSW (EAPA): Up to $500 vouchers for electricity and gas.
- VIC (Utility Relief Grant): Up to $650 per utility every two years.
- QLD (HEEAS): One-off payment of up to $720 every two years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to re-apply for my energy rebate every year?
For most ongoing concessions (like the Pensioner Rebate), your retailer keeps your details on file. However, specific rebates like the NSW Family Energy Rebate or the VIC Power Saving Bonus usually require a fresh application each financial year.
Can I get the Energy Bill Relief if I have solar panels?
Yes. The $150 Federal relief is credited to your account regardless of your solar status. It will appear as a credit in addition to any solar feed-in tariff you earn.
What should I do if my concession isn’t appearing on my bill?
Contact your retailer immediately. In 2026, programs like the Victorian Energy Assistance Program offer one-on-one help to ensure your eligible concessions are correctly attached to your account.
