Keeping the services on

WITH the ever increasing cost of living it is becoming more difficult to keep bills for essential services under control. The cost for things like gas, electricity and water have sky rocketed in recent years, with the average electricity bill now $350 per quarter.
Add to these costs the seemingly never-ending increases to the prices of food, petrol and clothing and everyone struggles to make ends meet. The flow-on effect of these compounding factors causes financial stress that impacts on family life – with the choice between having food on the table or petrol for the car a reality for many.
Assistance is out there for low-income earners. Health Care Card, Pensioner Concession Card and Department of Veterans Affairs gold card holders qualify for a 17.5 per cent discount on their electricity accounts. The Winter Energy Concession of 17.5 per cent also applies to gas accounts from 1 May to 31 October. If you are not on mains gas, you can also claim a non mains winter energy concession from 1 July if your main source of heating is LPG or firewood.
Further information is available from your energy retailer, or check the concessions website online at www.dhs.vic.gov.au .
Even after rebates the size of energy bills can still be daunting. If you are having difficulty with finding the money to pay your energy account contact your supplier to discuss options. If you have had a recent unexpected event that your bill money was needed to cover you may be eligible for a Utility Relief Grant.
An option available to everyone is to contact your supplier and discuss bill smoothing. Bill smoothing is a service that can be used for gas, electricity and water accounts, and is a way to average out your annual usage into more manageable payment. The actual amount you pay is agreed between you and your provider and allows for seasonal fluctuations.
Paying smaller amounts more often is often easier on the family budget, and with payment choices like Centrepay, BPAY, direct debit and internet banking available bills can be set up to be paid automatically.
Paying bills in this way will not work for everyone, but at a time when budgets are so tight it may be time to try something different.
If you are having difficulty in paying your bills and require further support, EACH’s Financial Counselling can be contacted on 9871 1800.
Kay and Leeanne are EACH counsellors.