Energy Rebate Scheme – In a major move to address soaring energy costs and support cost-of-living relief, the Australian government has officially approved the $1,300 Energy Rebate for 2025. This one-off financial relief is aimed at helping low-income households, pensioners, and eligible small businesses manage their electricity bills amid rising prices. With applications set to open soon, it’s essential to understand who qualifies, how to apply, and when to expect the rebate payments.
What Is the 2025 Energy Rebate Scheme?
The $1,300 Energy Rebate is part of a federal initiative supported by state governments to ease the pressure on households struggling with inflation and energy prices. The program offers a direct rebate of up to $1,300 to eligible residents, credited directly to their energy provider or through bank transfer in certain cases.
Key Features of the Rebate:
- Total value: $1,300 per eligible household
- Automatic application for most concession card holders
- Manual application for others via service portals
- Covers electricity only – not gas or water bills
- Rolled out between July 2025 and December 2025
Who Is Eligible for the Energy Rebate in 2025?
To ensure the $1,300 rebate reaches those most in need, the government has outlined specific eligibility requirements. You must meet at least one of the following:
- Be a holder of a Pensioner Concession Card
- Receive Centrelink payments such as JobSeeker or Age Pension
- Hold a Health Care Card or Low Income Health Care Card
- Be a Veteran Card holder
- Have an annual household income under the specified threshold (see table)
- Be a registered small business with turnover under $10 million
Eligibility Criteria Overview
| Criteria Type | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Age Pensioners | Automatically eligible |
| JobSeeker or Youth Allowance | Eligible with active Centrelink payments |
| Health Care Card Holders | Eligible |
| Low-Income Threshold | Under $60,000 per household annually |
| Veterans & DVA Recipients | Automatically eligible |
| Small Business Owners | Turnover less than $10 million |
| Disability Support Pensioners | Fully eligible |
| Energy Concession Card Holders | Automatically included |
Important Notes
- If your household is jointly owned, only one application per address is allowed.
- Proof of income may be required for low-income applicants.
When Will the Rebate Be Paid?
Payment Timeline for the $1,300 Energy Rebate
The rollout for rebate disbursements is expected to begin in July 2025, with timelines depending on your state or territory. Below is a projected schedule based on current information.
| State/Territory | Application Start | Payment Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | July 15, 2025 | Aug – Oct 2025 | Automatic for eligible residents |
| Victoria | July 22, 2025 | Aug – Nov 2025 | Apply via Services Victoria |
| Queensland | Aug 1, 2025 | Sep – Nov 2025 | Portal via QLD Gov website |
| South Australia | Aug 5, 2025 | Sep – Dec 2025 | Income verification required |
| Western Australia | July 30, 2025 | Aug – Nov 2025 | Paid through Synergy or Horizon |
| Tasmania | Aug 10, 2025 | Sep – Dec 2025 | Rebate via Aurora Energy |
| ACT | July 20, 2025 | Aug – Sep 2025 | Automatic if eligible |
| Northern Territory | Aug 15, 2025 | Sep – Oct 2025 | Apply via Territory Families |
How to Apply for the $1,300 Rebate
Application Methods:
- Automatic Payment: Most Centrelink recipients will be processed automatically.
- Manual Application: Required for low-income earners or small businesses without concession cards.
- State Portals: Applications can be lodged through Service NSW, Services Victoria, QLD Gov, and others.
Documents You May Need:
- Valid ID (driver’s license or passport)
- Centrelink or DVA number (if applicable)
- Energy provider account number
- Proof of income (for non-beneficiaries)
Steps to Apply:
- Visit your state’s service portal.
- Log in or create an account.
- Fill in required personal and financial details.
- Upload supporting documents.
- Submit and track your application.
Quick Links to Application Portals:
How Will the Payment Be Delivered?
Rebate Payment Modes:
- Direct credit to energy bills via your provider
- Direct bank transfer (for manual applicants)
- Paper cheques only in exceptional cases
Energy Providers Participating in the Scheme:
| Provider Name | State/Territory | Payment Mode |
|---|---|---|
| AGL | National | Bill Credit |
| Origin Energy | National | Bill Credit |
| Energy Australia | National | Bill Credit |
| Synergy | Western Australia | Automatic Bill Credit |
| Horizon Power | Regional WA | Manual Credit |
| Aurora Energy | Tasmania | Automatic |
| ActewAGL | ACT | Automatic |
| Ergon/Energex | Queensland | Manual / Auto |
FAQs – Energy Rebate Scheme
Q1: Can I claim the rebate if I rent a home?
Yes. As long as the electricity account is in your name and you meet eligibility, you can apply.
Q2: What if I move houses during the payment period?
Update your address with your energy provider and local service portal immediately to avoid disruption.
Q3: Can two people in the same house claim?
No. Only one claim per household is allowed.
Q4: Is the $1,300 taxable income?
No, this is considered non-taxable government assistance.
Q5: Can I choose to receive the rebate as cash?
Only certain applicants may receive a direct deposit if not billed via an eligible provider.
Who to Contact for Help
If you have trouble applying or want to confirm your eligibility, contact the relevant authority below:
| Department Name | Contact Number | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Service NSW | 13 77 88 | https://www.service.nsw.gov.au |
| Services Victoria | 1300 650 172 | https://www.vic.gov.au |
| QLD Community Services | 13 QGOV (13 74 68) | https://www.qld.gov.au |
| Centrelink Enquiries | 132 850 | https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au |
| Energy Ombudsman | Varies by State | https://www.ewon.com.au |
Conclusion of Energy Rebate Scheme
The $1,300 Energy Rebate offers real relief to Australians feeling the financial strain of high power bills. With the government backing the program and easy application options available, it’s the right time to check your eligibility and prepare your documents. Whether you’re a pensioner, a low-income earner, or a small business owner, this rebate could be a critical lifeline in 2025. Stay informed, apply early, and don’t miss out on your payment window.
