Victorians struggling with rising energy costs can now apply for a new $100 Power Saving Bonus, with the Allan Labor Government rolling out another round of bill relief for concession card holders.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio announced the program on Thursday, confirming applications are open for eligible households holding a health care, pensioner concession, veterans’ affairs pensioner concession or veterans’ affairs gold card. Applicants will need to provide a recent residential electricity bill.

The government says the one-off payment will provide “real and immediate help” for vulnerable families, easing cost-of-living pressures during winter. It comes in addition to the $150 Energy Bill Relief Fund, which the Commonwealth Government is automatically applying to all households.

More than 230 neighbourhood houses across Victoria, including the Farnham Street Neighbourhood Learning Centre in Flemington, will offer in-person support for residents who don’t have internet access or need extra help with applications.

Victorians can apply online through the free Victorian Energy Compare website, which also allows users to compare energy deals. According to the government, households that switched providers last year using the service saved an average of $240 annually.

Since the first Power Saving Bonus was launched in 2018, more than 4.5 million payments have been made across four rounds, totalling over $1 billion in relief.

In addition to the bonus, residents can access the Energy Assistance Program, a free service delivered with Anglicare Victoria and cohealth, providing over-the-phone or in-person support for households struggling to pay their energy bills.

Premier Allan said the government was committed to supporting households under financial pressure.

“So many families are doing it tough and we’re on their side by delivering real help, right now,” she said.

Minister D’Ambrosio said the payment would make a practical difference.

“This $100 payment will help vulnerable Victorians manage their winter energy bills,” she said. “Any Victorian can visit the Victorian Energy Compare website to check if they can switch to a cheaper energy offer.”

Member for Essendon Danny Pearson added that with more than 230 community locations offering assistance, “we’re making it easier for Victorians to access the Power Saving Bonus.”

For more information or to apply, visit compare.energy.vic.gov.au or call 1800 000 832.