Australian households grappling with persistently high energy costs in 2026 are actively seeking clarity on available support. While the widely publicised federal “Energy Bills Relief Act” and its associated universal payments provided significant temporary assistance, broad-based direct federal bill relief for most households concluded on 31 December 2025. From January 2026, the focus has largely shifted towards targeted state and territory concessions for eligible households, alongside enduring federal incentives for energy efficiency upgrades and renewable energy technologies.
This comprehensive guide outlines the current landscape of energy bill relief and support available to Australians in 2026, detailing federal programs and state-specific concessions to help you manage your household energy expenses.
The Status of Federal Energy Bill Relief in 2026
The Australian Government’s Energy Bill Relief Fund, which delivered direct, universal federal energy bill relief, provided up to AUD $300 to households in the 2024-25 financial year. This was followed by an additional AUD $150 (issued in two $75 quarterly instalments) for the first half of the 2025-26 financial year, which concluded on 31 December 2025. As a result, there is no new universal federal energy rebate confirmed for the 2026 calendar year for standard households. Electricity bills from January 2026 onwards reflect retail prices without this federal offset.
While this specific federal act’s universal payments have ceased, eligible households and small businesses may still access various forms of support through ongoing federal programs and state-specific initiatives.
Enduring Federal Incentives for Energy Efficiency and Renewables
The federal government continues to provide significant long-term energy savings opportunities through schemes promoting renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades.
Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES) and STCs
The SRES, which generates Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), remains the primary federal solar rebate. It offers an upfront discount on eligible rooftop solar PV systems. As of 1 January 2026, the deeming period for STCs reduced from 6 to 5 years, resulting in a 15-20% reduction in the upfront discount for new solar panels. The rebate value diminishes annually and is scheduled to end on 31 December 2030.
For instance, a typical 6.6kW solar system installed in Sydney (Zone 3) in 2026 is expected to generate approximately 46 STCs, which can translate to an upfront discount of around AUD $1,800–$1,900, assuming STC market prices of $35–$40 per certificate. In Queensland, a 6.6kW system could attract AUD $2,800 to $3,200 in STC value.
Cheaper Home Batteries Program
This federal program offers an upfront discount on eligible home battery systems. A significant change occurred on 1 May 2026, where the rebate rate for larger systems was reduced, moving to a tiered model. Before this date, a standard 10 kWh battery could receive approximately AUD $2,720 in discounts. After May 1, 2026, the rebate structure changed, with approximately AUD $272/kWh for batteries up to 14 kWh, dropping to around AUD $243/kWh for larger capacities.
To explore financing options for these significant investments, consider reading our guide on Best Solar Panel & Home Battery Financing Options in Australia 2026: Loans, PPAs & Green Mortgages Explained.
Federal STCs for Heat Pump Hot Water Systems
Installing an eligible heat pump hot water system also generates STCs, providing a federal rebate. These systems are highly energy-efficient and can significantly reduce hot water heating costs. In NSW, combined federal STCs and state ESS rebates can offer AUD $1,200-$2,500 towards a heat pump installation.
For more detailed information, consult our guide: Best Heat Pump Hot Water Systems in Australia 2026: Costs, Rebates & Buyer’s Guide.
State and Territory Energy Concessions and Rebates (2026)
While universal federal relief has ceased, all Australian states and territories continue to offer a range of ongoing concessions and rebates, primarily targeting eligible concession card holders.
New South Wales (NSW)
NSW offers several ongoing rebates for eligible households:
- Low Income Household Rebate: Up to AUD $285 per year for retail customers, or AUD $313.50 per year for embedded network customers.
- Seniors Energy Rebate: AUD $200 per household, per financial year, for self-funded retirees holding a valid Commonwealth Seniors Health Care Card.
- Medical Energy Rebate: For eligible concession card holders with specific medical needs.
- Life Support Rebate: For households with approved life support equipment.
- NSW Gas Rebate: Up to AUD $110 per year for concession card holders with natural gas accounts.
- Energy Savings Scheme (ESS): Provides discounts on energy-efficient upgrades, including heat pump hot water systems (typically AUD $400-$1,000), efficient reverse-cycle air conditioners (AUD $200–$1,200), and insulation.
- Virtual Power Plant (VPP) Incentive: Homeowners connecting a 10 kWh to 27 kWh battery to a VPP can receive approximately AUD $550 to $1,500.
Victoria (VIC)
Victoria provides a comprehensive suite of concessions:
- Annual Electricity Concession: A 17.5% discount on electricity usage and service costs, after the first AUD $171.60 per year.
- Winter Gas Concession: A 17.5% discount on gas usage and supply charges during the winter period (1 May to 31 October), after the first AUD $62.40.
- Excess Electricity/Gas Concessions: A 17.5% discount for usage above set annual thresholds (e.g., over AUD $3,895.13 for electricity).
- Medical Cooling Concession and Life Support Concession: Ongoing support for eligible households.
- Solar Homes Program (Solar Panel PV Rebate): Up to AUD $1,400 for new solar panel systems, with interest-free loans available for the same amount. Eligibility includes a combined household taxable income under AUD $210,000 and property value under AUD $3 million.
- Solar Homes Program (Hot Water Rebate): Up to AUD $1,000 off eligible heat pumps or solar hot water systems, increasing to AUD $1,400 for locally made products.
- Victorian Energy Upgrades (VEU) Program: Offers point-of-sale discounts on various energy-saving products. From 1 October 2026, ceiling insulation rebates will expand to all eligible residential homes.
- Non-Mains Energy Concession/Utility Relief Grant Scheme: Up to AUD $650 for non-mains energy (e.g., firewood) in cases of financial crisis.
For more detailed Victorian concessions, refer to our guide: Victorian Energy Concessions for Pensioners 2025 2026 in Australia: Complete Guide.
Queensland (QLD)
Queensland offers several rebates for eligible residents:
- Queensland Electricity Rebate: AUD $386.34 per year (GST inclusive) for eligible concession card holders.
- Medical Cooling and Heating Electricity Concession Scheme: AUD $522.09 per year (GST inclusive) for eligible applicants with medical needs.
- Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme: One-off emergency assistance of up to AUD $720 once every two years for low-income households in short-term financial crisis.
- Affordable Energy Plan (Interest-Free Loans for Battery Storage): Up to AUD $10,000 for home battery storage.
- Supercharged Solar for Renters program: Provides an upfront rebate of up to AUD $3,500 for landlords to install solar on rental properties.
South Australia (SA)
South Australia provides targeted energy relief:
- Energy Concession: Up to AUD $281.78 per year for eligible concession card holders or those on a fixed income.
- SA Concessions Energy Discount Offer (SACEDO): Eligible concession card holders with Origin Energy can receive 20% off electricity usage and supply, 15% off gas usage and supply, and 40% off 45kg LPG cylinders. This offer runs until at least 2029.
- Medical Heating and Cooling Concession: For South Australians with a clinically verified medical condition requiring frequent heating or cooling.
- Emergency Electricity Payment Scheme (EEPS): Assists electricity customers in financial hardship who are disconnected or at risk of disconnection.
- Retailer Energy Productivity Scheme (REPS): Offers free or discounted energy upgrades such as ceiling insulation, efficient lighting, air conditioning, and heat pump hot water systems. It also supports connecting home batteries to Virtual Power Plants.
Western Australia (WA)
Western Australia offers various ongoing concessions for eligible households, typically linked to Pensioner Concession Cards or Health Care Cards. While specific dollar amounts for 2026 were not consistently detailed in available information, residents are advised to check the WA government’s concessions website or contact their energy retailer for the most current figures and eligibility criteria.
Tasmania (TAS)
Tasmanian households can access several forms of assistance:
- Annual Electricity Concession: Approximately AUD $1.76866 per day (around AUD $645.56 per year) for retail customers, or a one-off payment of AUD $645.56 for embedded network customers for 2025-26.
- Heating Allowance: AUD $56 per year (AUD $28 paid twice) for Pensioner Concession Card holders.
- Medical Cooling or Heating Concession: Approximately AUD $0.52975 per day (around AUD $193.36 per year) for concession households with medical needs.
- Energy Hardship Fund: Administered by the Salvation Army for those experiencing financial difficulty.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Specific ACT energy rebates for 2026 were not prominently detailed in current search results. ACT residents are encouraged to consult the ACT Government’s website for concessions or contact their energy retailer for the latest information on available support programs and eligibility.
Northern Territory (NT)
The NT provides substantial concessions for eligible residents:
- NT Concession Scheme – Electricity: Up to AUD $1,200 per year (capped at 8,000 kWh) for eligible concession card holders.
- Medical Support Allowance: An AUD $154 allowance for those exceeding the concession cap due to medical criteria.
- NT Home and Business Battery Scheme: Offers AUD $400/kWh up to AUD $12,000, though this scheme is currently at capacity and may reopen.
- Solar for Multi Dwellings Grant: Provides up to AUD $7,500 per dwelling for apartments and units.
Beyond Direct Relief: Strategies for Long-Term Energy Savings
While direct bill relief and upfront rebates offer immediate assistance, implementing long-term energy-saving strategies is crucial for sustained reductions in your energy bills. This includes investing in energy-efficient upgrades and changing consumption habits. For strategies on reducing household energy consumption, read our guide on How to Cut Your Electricity Bill This Winter in Australia 2026: Strategies After Federal Rebates End.
Energy-Efficient Appliance Upgrades
Many state programs and federal incentives encourage the adoption of energy-efficient appliances. Upgrading old appliances can lead to significant savings.
| Appliance Category | Typical Rebate/Savings (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| LED Lighting Replacements | Up to $210 annually | Instant rebates often available. |
| Efficient Air Conditioning | Up to $730 | For replacing old units with high-efficiency reverse-cycle systems. |
| Heat Pump Hot Water Systems | Up to $1,400 (state) + STCs | Varies by state and federal STC value. |
| Energy-Efficient Pool Pumps | $160-$270 | For installing 5-star rated pool pumps. |
| Home Insulation & Draught Sealing | Varies by program | Often free or discounted, particularly in SA (REPS). |
Navigating Eligibility and Application
Eligibility for these programs typically depends on factors such as your income, concession card status (e.g., Pensioner Concession Card, Health Care Card, DVA Gold Card), and the type of property. Most energy bill relief payments are automatically applied to your electricity bill if you are an eligible retail customer. However, some embedded network customers or those seeking specific grants may need to apply directly via state government portals (e.g., MyGov, Service NSW, Solar Victoria) or through accredited energy retailers/providers. Always contact your energy retailer or relevant state government department for precise eligibility and application details. For information on Centrelink-related energy rebates, see our guide: Centrelink Energy Rebates Australia 2026: Your Guide to Expanded Eligibility & Automatic Bill Relief.
Bottom Line
While the universal federal energy bill relief has concluded for 2026, Australian households are not without support. A robust network of state and territory concessions, alongside federal incentives for renewable energy and energy efficiency upgrades, remains active. Proactively investigating your eligibility for these programs and investing in energy-saving home improvements are the most effective strategies to mitigate rising energy costs in 2026. Don’t wait for future broad-based relief; focus on available targeted support and long-term efficiency to secure your household’s energy budget.