The Premier, David Bartlett, today announced the Government has moved to protect the most vulnerable Tasmanians from the rising cost of electricity.
“The Government will provide an additional one-off $100 concession to all Concession Card holders, to shield them from rising power costs,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Labor has a proud tradition of protecting Tasmanians who are most in need, and we are again taking that responsibility” Mr Bartlett said.
The measure will cost $7.9 million dollars in 2010-11, and adds to the 25-million dollars of electricity concessions already being provided by the Government, this year alone.
“By providing this one-off $100 payment, we are delivering on our election promise for all Concession Card holders – to limit energy price rises to five per cent for the coming financial year.
“Tasmania has the most comprehensive electricity concessions system in Australia, with almost 80,000 households receiving an average of $320 each year, increasing annually, in line with price rises,” Mr Bartlett said.
“I’ve decided to announce this new measure ahead of the budget, because of growing speculation about the issue,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Tasmania’s energy market is extremely complex and volatile”.
“The Government has reached the difficult but responsible view that restricting price rises to five per cent, across the board, could jeopardise the industry’s ability to fund necessary infrastructure, and maintain a high standard of service across Tasmania.
“Without that certainty of supply, we would miss out on further investment opportunities,” Mr Bartlett said.
“All Australian states are facing double-digit price increases, and Tasmania is unlikely to be immune from similar rises.
“However, Cabinet is considering a range of measures to ensure Tasmanians have a sustainable electricity market, and the lowest prices possible.
“One thing is certain. Labor will always keep electricity prices lower than the Liberals – who promised to rip $17-million dollars out of Tasmanian pockets, via the State’s energy companies,” Mr Bartlett said.
“Perhaps that’s why the opposition was virtually silent on energy pricing issues in Parliament, this morning?”
