AURORA Energy will provide $200,000 to top up the Tasmanian Government’s energy hardship fund to directly support their customers who need an extra hand to pay their energy bill.
The fund, administered by The Salvation Army, is close to being exhausted, with emergency relief providers around the state experiencing higher than normal demand for their services as the impacts of COVID-19 continue to have an effect.
Salvation Army Doorways Manager – Tasmania, Stacey Milbourne, said the extra financial support came at the perfect time, especially with the arrival of winter.
“The additional funding from Aurora will provide much-needed support for individuals and families across our Tasmanian communities,” Mrs Milbourne said.
“Currently what we are seeing at our Doorways centres and emergency relief centres are community members having to make the hard decision whether to heat their homes, or buy food or pay rent for the week. This funding will make the world of difference for those Tasmanians.”
Aurora Chief Operating Officer, Kane Ingham, said the energy retailer was pleased it could fill the shortfall.
“Since the very start of the pandemic, we’ve been there for our customers,” Mr Ingham said.
“We recognise that there are still challenging times ahead for homes and businesses in Tasmania and as a proud Tasmanian owned and operated company, we are committed to doing what we can to help, however long it takes.”
Mr Ingham encouraged any Aurora customer who may be struggling to keep on top of their bill and are in need of support to get in touch.
