We are helping community members apply for the State Government’s $250 Power Saving Bonus, a one-off payment to help eligible Victorians experiencing energy bill stress.
Below are some frequently asked questions. If you or someone you know meets the eligibility requirements, get in contact with us and we can help you access this important bonus.
What is the $250 Power Saving Bonus?
The $250 Power Saving Bonus is a one-off $250 payment which provides direct support to Victorian households experiencing power bill stress during the coronavirus pandemic. It is available to over 900,000 eligible Victorian households with at least one eligible concession cardholder.
Who is eligible for the Power Saving Bonus?
To be eligible, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be a Victorian residential energy consumer (i.e. have a residential electricity account)
- Be receiving payments under one of the following concession programs:
- Centrelink Pensioner Concession
- JobSeeker, Youth Allowance, Austudy or Abstudy
- Department of Veterans Affairs Pensioner Concession
- Or hold a Department of Veterans Affairs Gold Card
Holders of Health Care Cards who are not recipients of Youth Allowance, JobSeeker, Austudy or Abstudy are not eligible.
When can eligible households apply?
Eligible households can apply anytime now up until 31 January 2022.
How many people per household can apply?
Only one payment is available to each household.
How do I apply?
Applications are made online. If you do not have access to, or are uncomfortable using technology, get in contact with Milpara Community House and we will help you every step of the way:
Phone number: 03 5655 2524
Address: 21 Shellcot Road Korumburra VIC
What do I need for the application process?
When you come to us to submit your application, there are a few things you need to bring with you:
- a copy of a recent electricity bill
- your ‘NMI’ number (this is located on your bill and is typically a 10 or 11 digit number)
- your card number for your Pensioner Concession Card or Health Care Card (for JobSeekers, Youth Allowance, Austudy and Abstudy recipients)
Be sure to keep a copy of your NMI and your application reference number as you may need this information for further communications about your application.
How long does it take to receive the Power Saving Bonus?
If you meet the eligibility and documentation requirements, you should receive your $250 payment via Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) within two to three weeks of submission. If you request payment via cheque, this should be received within four weeks.
What times are Milpara Community House assisting people with applications?
Milpara will assist people with this during normal business hours Monday – Friday 9.30 am – 4.30 pm. We do request you ring and book an appointment time.
Do I need to call and book a time?
Yes. By ringing ahead and booking a time we can ensure a staff person can assist you more quickly.
What’s the easiest way to get to Milpara Community House via public transport?
Korumburra can be accessed via the Vline bus route Melbourne to Yarram via Leongatha, Koo Wee Rup and Dandenong. Milpara Community House is 1.2 km from the Korumburra Main Street Bus Stop and 1.1 km from the Coal Creek Bus Stop. Approximate walk time is 12 -15 minutes. You can use Public Transport Planner to find bus times https://www.ptv.vic.gov.au/journey