More than 3.9 million Australians will receive a one-off Energy Assistance Payment to help with their next energy bill and cost of living expenses.
Federal Member for Gippsland Darren Chester welcomed the support for low income earners across Gippsland.
He said the payment of $75 for singles and $125 for eligible couples would be exempt from income tax and will be paid automatically before the end of the current financial year, subject to the passage of legislation.
The additional support would be provided to recipients of the Age Pension, Disability Support Pension, Carer Payment, Parenting Payment Single recipients, and veterans and their dependants receiving eligible payments from the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Mr Chester said the payment would be a welcomed bonus for locals struggling with cost of living expenses.
“I’m working to help reduce the cost of living for all Gippslanders,” Mr Chester said.
“The best things Government can do is help businesses to create jobs in our region, reduce the tax burden, invest in better infrastructure and provide direct assistance to low income earners.”