A Rebecca White Tasmanian Labor Government will provide a boost to the vital No Interest Loans Scheme program to help Tasmanians doing it tough with devasting power bills in a cost of living crisis.
We’ll do this by increasing government investment in NILS by an additional $800,000 a year and ensuring ongoing funding for the Energy Saver Loan Scheme, giving families interest-free loans to purchase energy-efficient appliances and save more money on their power bills.
The scheme is funded until the end of this financial year – but Labor recognises the value of the program and commits to funding the scheme for another four years, to the tune of $500,000 a year.
For every $1 of operational funding for NILS, $9 is loaned and circulated into the Tasmanian economy and community – meaning it’s good for helping households manage the cost-of-living, good for local businesses and prevents people from getting caught up with dodgy pay-day lenders.
In a cost-of-living crisis, many Tasmanians who are already struggling to make ends meet cannot afford the upfront costs associated with buying new appliances that are more effective and energy efficient.
The Energy Saver Loan Scheme gives them the opportunity to upgrade to efficient, longer lasting and better-quality appliances like heat pumps, without the expensive upfront costs.
Labor’s top priority is urgent action on the cost of living – and ensuring this scheme continues to benefit struggling Tasmanians is a no-brainer.
On top of our plan to reverse Jeremy Rockliff’s power price rises, cap future increases and make rentals more energy efficient, it will help save Tasmanians money on their power bills.
After 10 years of the Liberals, it’s time for a better future and a Labor government that will take urgent action on the cost of living.
Fast facts:
- Increase in investment in NILS of an additional $800,000 per annum for three years = $2.4 million
- 4 year continuation of the Energy Saver Loan scheme at $500 000 per annum = $2 million
Rebecca White MP
Tasmanian Labor Leader
Sarah Lovell MLC
Shadow Minister for Community Services and Development
