Tasmanian Government Hardship Fund Doubled for next year

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TASMANIANS facing financial hardship will have increased support to pay their electricity bills, with the Tasmanian Government and Aurora Energy doubling their financial support of the Energy Hardship Fund commencing 1 July.

On top of historical funding of $350,000, the State Government has provided an additional $150,000 in the 2026 Budget. Aurora Energy will also provide an additional $200,000 to top up the fund, increasing total support to $700,000.

The fund, administered by The Salvation Army alongside 42 emergency relief providers located around the state, is experiencing higher than normal demand for their services as more Tasmanians feel the impacts of cost-of-living pressures.

Both Aurora Energy and the Tasmanian Government are aware of the impacts cost-of-living pressures can place on customers who need help paying their bill.

Salvation Army Doorways Manager TAS, Stacey Milbourne, said the additional support has arrived at a vital moment for Tasmanians doing it tough.

“Every day we meet individuals and families who are being forced into impossible choices as living costs continue to rise. For those who are having to choose between heating their homes, putting food on the table or paying rent, this support will make a significant difference.”

Minister for Community and Multicultural Affairs, Roger Jaensch, said the Government is committed to delivering enhanced and ongoing assistance to those in need.

“Cost of living pressures continue to impact many Tasmanian households, and by increasing the amount of support available we can provide meaningful relief for those who need it most,” Minister Jaensch said.

“Our Government is delivering further cost of living relief for vulnerable Tasmanians by increasing the Energy Hardship Fund to $500 000 per year until June 2029.

“We’re also delivering a range of generous and targeted concessions to support eligible households, including the low-income annual electricity concession, medical heating and cooling concessions, and life support concessions.”

Aurora Energy CEO Nigel Clark said as Tasmania’s only owned and operated electricity retailer, its commitment to supporting Tasmanians remained steadfast.

“As a locally owned retailer, we see firsthand the difficulties people are experiencing. We want our customers to feel confident that assistance is available—whether through the Energy Hardship Fund or tailored support such as our Your Energy Support program,” Mr Clark said.

Mr Clark encouraged any Aurora customer who may be struggling to keep on top of their bill and need support to get in touch on 1300 13 2003 or visit auroraenergy.com.au

Aurora Energy has previously provided $200,000 to the fund, in 2022 and 2023, both times in response to growing cost of living pressures.

To locate your nearest emergency relief provider visit findhelptas.org.au