There are currently 90% of Uniting’s clients who can't pay their bills on time, with two out of three people experiencing three or more additional challenges that can entrench their financial debt. We are partnering with Uniting to deliver an Energy Support Program helping customers in financial hardship or facing extreme vulnerabilities.
Supporting Queensland households facing energy stress
Powerlink is proud to sponsor Uniting’s Energy Support Program - providing targeted support to Queenslanders facing energy hardship. This partnership focuses on helping vulnerable households navigate rising living costs and energy stress. Delivered by experienced advisors via phone, the program offers practical, one-on-one assistance to reduce electricity debt, improve affordability, and ensure eligible households can access available concessions.
Why This Program Matters
The latest Queensland Household Energy Survey shows that many households—particularly renters and those without solar PV - remain deeply concerned about their ongoing ability to pay electricity bills. With energy stress often compounding other financial pressures such as rent and mortgage costs, support programs like this one are critical to ensure that people don’t fall through the cracks.
What the Program Delivers
Through Powerlink’s support, Uniting provides tailored, over-the-phone assistance that includes:
- Energy efficiency advice and literacy support
- Access to all eligible government concessions, including backdated rebates where possible.
- Advocacy with retailers to set up realistic payment plans and facilitate entry into hardship programs.
- Assistance with the Home Energy Emergency Assistance Scheme (HEEAS) to help reduce debts.
- Retail plan comparisons for households in Southeast Queensland with no current electricity debt.
- Referrals to additional community services, such as financial counselling, family violence support or emergency relief, when needed.
Impact to Date
Since our support began in January 2022, the Uniting Energy Support Program has delivered $947,679 in estimated quantified benefits to supported households. Every $1 of support provided delivers ~$9.50c in quantified benefits to those supported.^
Many supported customers are older Queenslanders on fixed incomes, including those on the Age Pension.
^As of October 2026. Benefits are estimated as relief and savings delivered over a five-year period.
About the Program
Uniting’s Queensland based team provides confidential and respectful phone-based support. Energy advisors work directly with customers to understand their needs and - with consent - can liaise with energy retailers to apply relevant concessions and rebates.
Interpreter services are available on request.
How to Access Support
If someone you know is experiencing energy stress:
- Call: 1800 313 126
- Email: [email protected]
Community organisations are also encouraged to refer clients for support using the same contact details.