Government announces Energy Pricing Relief - Long-term Measurers are needed and are cheaper!
[Sydney, 26/03/25] – The Sydney Alliance welcomes the government’s announcement of another round of energy bill relief in the latest budget, providing much-needed financial support for households struggling with soaring power bills. However, while these short-term measures offer immediate assistance, long-term solutions remain critical to ensuring energy affordability and sustainability.
"We know that rising energy costs have placed immense pressure on families, renters, and vulnerable communities across Sydney," said Diana Olmos, Community Organiser at the Sydney Alliance. "This relief will help ease some of that burden, but it does not address the root causes of energy insecurity and inequality."
In the lead-up to the federal budget and election, the Sydney Alliance brought together 837 people in Western Sydney to advocate for investment in renewable energy, better home efficiency programs and authentic local engagement for low income households. Community leaders presented proposals to federal politicians, including a $5 billion investment in home energy upgrades and $3 million for mobile community energy hubs to lower power bills and support a just energy transition.
"While we acknowledge this step by the government, we urge them to commit to deeper, systemic reforms and investment," Brad Smith, Policy and Advocacy Director at Nature Conservation Council of NSW. "We need policies that improve energy efficiency in rental properties, increase access to solar and battery storage for all households, and support the most in need to transition towards clean, affordable energy sources."
The Alliance also calls on the government to ensure that relief measures are equitable and accessible, particularly for renters, social housing tenants, CALD communities and people on lower incomes who are often excluded from existing energy-saving initiatives.
"We welcome today’s announcements as a sign that the government is listening to the cost of living pressures, but we will expect to see solutions that deliver permanent energy security for all Australians and Sydneysiders in the next weeks," added Anthony Matthews, parishioner and school teacher at Catholic Diocese of Parramatta. "A fair and just energy transition must be at the heart of future policy decisions especially as we head into an election, we need particular concern for those most in need. Climate justice is social justice".
The Sydney Alliance will continue working with communities, experts, and policymakers to ensure that energy affordability remains a priority beyond this budget cycle.
Media Contact:
Nicholas O’Connor - Sydney Alliance Head of Comms
0408540721
