WACOSS membership is made up of a vast network of individuals and organisations who are committed to our vision to create an inclusive, just and equitable society for all Western Australians.
WACOSS’s policy submissions and advocacy work are aimed at influencing policy decision makers at both a State and Federal level to provide a voice for vulnerable Western Australians.
WACOSS events provide a unique opportunity to network with sector leaders and take part in important sector discussions that will shape the future outcomes for those we represent.
WACOSS’s policy submissions and advocacy work is aimed at influencing policy decision makers at both a State and Federal level to provide a voice for vulnerable Western Australians.
Welcome Extra Support to Keep People Connected
March 31, 2020
WACOSS has warmly welcomed the McGowan Government’s announcement today of additional support for WA households experiencing financial hardship.
“This is a time when many people are facing serious financial strain and we must do everything we can to support them get through it,” said Louise Giolitto, CEO, WACOSS.
“The package unveiled today by Premier McGowan is crucial for maintain people’s connection to essential services like energy and water.”
WACOSS is one of more than 40 community organisations that has supported the call to keep people connected to essential services during the COVID-19 crisis and has been advocating directly to the State Government on this issue.
“We are particularly pleased to see the commitment made today by the State Government that people experiencing financial hardship due to COVID-19 will not have their energy or water disconnected,” Ms Giolitto said.
“The privately-owned gas companies operating in WA need to follow the example being set here by the publicly-owned Synergy and Horizon, by making the same commitment.
“Disconnections have serious emotional, financial, health and safety impacts. That data shows that WA households have been disconnected by their utilities at the highest rate in the country.
“With the extra pressures households are facing and with many people spending more time within their home, it is so important that they are able to stay connected to essential services.
“At the same time, it is crucial that households are not being pushed into the position where they are accumulating larger and larger debts. That no interest will now be charged on deferred bill payments for those people is crucial to that.
“It is also pleasing to see that the Energy Assistance Payments are being brought forward to this financial year, as well as the eligibility for the payment boost expanded. This means more households who need this money right now, will be able to access it faster.”
Ends.
To download a PDF version of this media release, click here.
Media contact: Laurene Coller, Communications Officer, [email protected], 0419 316 557
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