Wyndham Park Community Centre is offering to help residents experiencing financial hardship to access the state government’s $250 Power Saving Bonus.
The bonus provides eligible Victorians with a one-off payment, to assist them with the costs of living during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning has engaged Neighbourhood Houses Victoria (NHV) in partnership Good Shepherd to help spread word about the Power Saving Bonus.
NHV chief executive Nicole Battle said the pandemic has exacerbated existing poverty, with many people losing work or income as a result of Victoria’s lockdowns.
“This bonus offers some financial relief for these community members, many of whom have to choose whether they can pay their next electricity bill or put food on the table,” she said.
Staff at the Wyndham Park Community Centre in Werribee, which is part of the Neighbourhood House Co-ordination Program, can help residents complete an online application for the Power Saving Bonus
Centre manager Greg Ferrington said there were plenty of people in the community who have never used a computer, or who lack the confidence and skills to do something such as submitting an application online.
“We don’t want this to be a barrier to them accessing the $250 payment, so we are available to step them through the process, and make sure they aren’t left behind,” Mr Ferrington said.
To be eligible for the Power Saving Bonus, applicants must hold a pensioner concession card or receive JobSeeker, Austudy, Abstudy or Youth Allowance.
For assistance with accessing the Power Saving Bonus, call Wyndham Park Community Centre on 8742 3975.
