With the cost of living continuing to rise, many Australians are set to receive much-needed financial support. A new $700–$750 electricity credit is being rolled out this week for eligible households and small businesses in Western Australia. The payment, aimed at easing the burden of power bills during peak seasons, will be delivered in two instalments.
This targeted cost-of-living relief is part of a broader strategy to support Australians amid ongoing inflation and high utility costs. If you’re wondering whether you’re eligible and how to receive your credit, here’s everything you need to know.
What Is the $700–$750 Cost of Living Credit?
The cost of living relief package provides:
- $700 credit to residential households, split into two $350 payments
- $750 credit to eligible small businesses
The credit is applied directly to electricity bills, reducing out-of-pocket expenses during the coldest and hottest months of the year — when energy use typically spikes.
When Will the Payments Arrive?
The payment schedule is designed to help families when they need it most.
| Instalment | Amount | Expected Period |
|---|---|---|
| First Instalment | $350 | July–August 2025 |
| Second Instalment | $350 | December 2025–January 2026 |
No manual claim is needed for most households — the credit will be automatically applied if you meet the eligibility requirements.
Who Is Eligible?
For Residential Households
You are eligible for the $700 credit if:
- You are a resident of Western Australia
- You have an active residential electricity account
- Your electricity provider is Synergy or Horizon Power
- Your household is billed under a residential plan
Good news: All residential customers in Western Australia under these providers will receive the credit automatically.
If your electricity is not directly billed (e.g., if you live in a unit complex or retirement village), you may still qualify. In such cases, a manual application process is expected to open soon.
For Small Businesses
Small businesses will receive $750 in credit if they:
- Operate in Western Australia
- Use less than 50 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity annually
- Are billed directly by Synergy or Horizon Power
Eligibility for small businesses is subject to additional requirements, such as valid business registration and electricity consumption level.
How to Claim the Credit
If You’re with Synergy or Horizon Power
- Do nothing – the credit is automatically applied
- You will see the reduction on your upcoming bills
- First instalment expected in July–August 2025
If You’re with Another Provider or in an Embedded Network
- Manual applications will be required
- Application expected to open in July
- You may need to apply via Revenue WA or another designated platform
- Proof of residence or electricity usage may be required
For Small Businesses Outside Major Retailers
- You will need to apply manually if not billed directly by Synergy or Horizon Power
- Contact information and instructions are expected to be provided in the coming weeks
Why This Relief Matters
Energy costs are among the fastest-growing household expenses in Australia. With colder months increasing heating usage and warmer months requiring cooling systems, families are facing record-high power bills.
The $700–$750 relief is designed to:
- Reduce pressure on low and middle-income households
- Help small businesses maintain operations
- Stimulate local economies by freeing up household cashflow
By strategically targeting peak usage periods, the program ensures the support arrives when it’s needed most.
Additional Support to Know About
While this cost-of-living package is a significant initiative, it’s not the only support available:
- Hardship assistance programs remain active for those struggling to pay
- Additional rebates or energy grants may be available through state and federal programs
- Households on embedded networks may also qualify for separate or adjusted benefits
Keep your electricity bills handy and monitor your account for updates.
The $700–$750 Cost of Living Relief program offers timely financial assistance to Australians in Western Australia. With automatic credits starting this week, many households and small businesses will see a direct reduction in their power bills. Make sure you check your eligibility, especially if you’re not billed directly by a major provider.
Stay alert for further announcements, particularly if you’ll need to submit a manual claim. With this cost-of-living boost, many Australians can breathe a little easier as they manage rising household expenses.
FAQs
Do I need to apply for the $700–$750 electricity credit?
Not if you’re billed by Synergy or Horizon Power. The credit is applied automatically. Others may need to apply manually.
What if I live in an apartment or shared building?
You may still be eligible, but you will likely need to apply manually once the application portal opens.
When will the credits show up on my electricity bill?
The first instalment will appear during the July–August 2025 billing cycle, and the second will appear in December 2025–January 2026.