Local residents and small businesses could receive hundreds of dollars in savings on their energy bills under the NSW government’s energy package savings scheme.

We understand families, households and businesses find it hard to make ends meet when living pressures pile up. There is no single fix but this package will help ease some of the pressure. 

The reforms announced this week include: * A 20 per cent increase on energy rebates which will see the Low Income Household Rebate increased from $235 to $285 and the Family Energy Rebate from $150 to $180;

* Discounts on equipment upgrades for small businesses, to save each business up to $1900 on their yearly bill;

* Discounts for households replacing energy efficient fixed appliances such as lighting and air conditioners, which could lead to savings of up to $500 per household a year;

* Discounts for up to 23,000 concession cardholders to save up to 50 per cent on the cost of upgrading old fridges and TVs to energy-saving models, saving each household an average of $200 a year;

* Energy saving upgrades for up to 16,500 public housing clients to assist the state’s most vulnerable, with participating households to save an average of $360 per year on their bills.

This is the nation’s most comprehensive package to address rising energy bills.

Foster Care Week

This week is Foster Care Week which is an opportunity for our community to thank carers for their role in nurturing and caring for our most vulnerable children and young people. The NSW government is working hard with parents to help them change when their children are at risk. When parents cannot change, our focus must be on prioritising the needs of the child for a safe, permanent and loving home for life, either through guardianship or open adoption. 

To find out more visit www.facs.nsw.gov.au/fostercare, or call my office on 6584 0977.