Update: The Palaszczuk Government has doubled the budget of the energy efficient appliance cashback program to $44 million after the initial offer was flooded with more than 10,000 applications.

“With so many families applying for the appliance rebate, we wanted to make sure more Queenslanders have a chance to receive this cashback offer," Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

The Palaszczuk Government is offering Queenslanders between $300 and $1,000 cashback on appliance upgrades as part of its new Climate Smart Energy Savers program. 

The rebate is available for anyone replacing an old appliance, such as a washing machine, fridge, or hot water system, with another boasting an energy rating of four stars or higher.

The program has $22 million to hand out and is expected to benefit around 40,000 households, starting today.

It’s designed to ease cost-of-living pressures, with those earning a taxable income of $66,667 or less able to receive the largest rebates.  

“We know Queenslanders are feeling the financial pinch, and we’re proud to deliver this additional cash-back measure on energy efficient appliances,” said Mark Bailey, acting minister for energy, renewables, and hydrogen. 

“Not only does the Climate Smart Energy Savers program provide financial help when making an energy-efficient purchase, but Queensland households can expect to see significant savings off their electricity bills for years to come.”

Queenslanders on a low income could receive as much as $550 cash-back on the purchase of a new dishwasher, dryer, or washing machine.

They could also receive up to $1,000 back after purchasing and installing a new energy-efficient air conditioner or hot water system. 

Appliance purchased

Rebate available for all Queenslanders

Rebate available for those earning under $66,667

Washing Machine

$300

$550

Dishwasher

$300

$550

Dryer

$300

$550

Refrigerator 

$350

$600

Air conditioner

$400

$650

Solar hot water system

$800

$1,000

Heat pump hot water system

$800

$1,000

Every household is eligible for one rebate, but they can’t claim more than the cost of the appliance and its installation. 

If a low-income applicant lives with a partner or spouse, the higher of their incomes will be assessed for the rebate.

“Funds are limited, so it’s important to lodge your receipt as soon as possible after making a purchase, and to check with your retailer when at the checkout to make sure there’s still funding available,” Mr Bailey said.

“This $22 million program comes on top of our nation-leading energy rebates.”

The Queensland Government offered all households a $550 discount on their energy bills as part of the state’s budget, handed down in June. 

Vulnerable households who receive the $372 Queensland Electricity Rebate were also promised a $700 cost of living rebate, bringing the monetary support provided to those that need it to a total of $1,072.

First published on September 2023

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