- From today, household energy prices will decline by 7.11%
- Will save 243,000 households between $126-$145 annually
- Two drought funding programs have also been announced
The Tasmanian government has announced a decrease in electricity prices effective today, and drought funding to support farmers and regions.
Today, Tasmanian households will see a 7.11% decrease in electricity prices with some small businesses receiving an 11% drop depending on their tariff.
The price changes were made by the Tasmanian Economic Regulator and are expected to result in 243,000 households saving between $126-$145 annually on their power bill, with a further 29,000 small businesses saving $183.
“We understand that the cost of living is a major issue for all Tasmanians and we are well on track with our Tasmania-First Energy Policy which aims to deliver the lowest regulated electricity prices in the nation by 2022.”
Guy Barnett, Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction
Eligible electricity concession holders will be provided with a $125 winter supplement, benefitting about 90,0000 Tasmanians. The scheme will cost up to $12 million.
Additionally, customers in embedded networks with no direct relationship with an electricity retailer – such as some retirement villages, aged care facilities and caravan parks – will be eligible for a one-off $125 COVID Cost of Living Grant.
Drought funding to deliver better risk management
The Tasmanian government has also announced two programs funded under the Federal Government’s $5 billion Future Drought Fund.
The two programs – Farm Business Resilience and Regional Drought Resilience Planning – aim to provide farmers and regional communities with tools to support drought times.
“The plans will identify how to manage through droughts, finding ways to build resilience across agricultural sectors and allied industries,” said David Littleproud, the Federal Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management.
“The program supports partnerships of councils, regional organisations, communities, industries and farmers to develop regional drought resilience plans.”
David Littleproud, Minister for Agriculture, Drought and Emergency Management
The Farm Business Resilience offers farmers access to subsidised learning and development opportunities.
“The program will take farmers’ knowledge and skills to the next level in risk management and decision-making, natural resource management, and personal and social resilience,” explained Mr Littleproud.
“It will also support farm business planning and access to experts and one-on-one advice.”
Mr Barnett, in his capacity as the Tasmanian Minister for Primary Industries and Water, added the funding would facilitate three regional drought resilience plans being developed covering the entire state.
“The plans will build on existing regional planning for climate change and climate variability in regions including the Tasmanian Coastal Adaptation Pathways and Climate Resilient Councils projects,” he said.
