The Allan Labor Government has announced fresh support for struggling households, with new funding aimed at easing grocery and energy costs across Victoria.
Visiting Geelong Foodshare this week, Premier Jacinta Allan unveiled a suite of measures in the 2025/26 state budget, including $18 million for food relief and a $100 Power Saving Bonus targeted at concession card holders.
The food support package includes a $9 million boost to the Community Food Relief Program, which helps local networks deliver meals to families doing it tough. Foodbank Victoria will receive $500,000 to distribute fresh produce to rural and regional charities, delivering an estimated half a million kilograms of food across the state.
Another $6 million will double support for the Regional Food Security Alliance and six regional Foodshares in Geelong, Albury-Wodonga, Bendigo, Shepparton, Mildura and Warrnambool.
Geelong Foodshare, which now supports over 55 local organisations, reported delivering the equivalent of 2.2 million meals last financial year, reaching around 45,000 people through its mini-mart and delivery programs.
The government is also putting $3 million into Foodbank’s GROW program, which rescues surplus produce from farms and diverts it to local food relief organisations.
Premier Allan said the move was about helping working families and carers facing tough choices. “So many families and workers are doing it tough and I’m on their side,” she said. “I’m focused on what matters most—delivering real help with the cost of living for families who need it.”
Minister for Carers and Volunteers Ros Spence echoed that sentiment. “No one should have to choose between putting food on the table or paying the bills—we’re making sure more Victorians can get the support they need, when they need it.”
On the energy front, the government has committed $50 million to provide a one-off $100 Power Saving Bonus to households with concession cards. Applications will open in August through the Victorian Energy Compare website or participating community organisations.
This initiative complements the federal Energy Bill Relief Fund, which is set to provide a $150 discount on energy bills for all households and eligible small businesses from July to December.
Minister for Energy and Resources Lily D’Ambrosio said the focus was on ordinary families. “While energy companies put profits first, we’re on the side of ordinary Victorian families—helping them cut energy costs and take back control of their bills.”
The state government continues to push other cost-cutting measures including free weekend public transport for seniors, free transport for children and teens, financial support for school activities, and incentives for households to install heat pumps and solar water systems.
Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos said the broader effort includes reducing food waste. “Every Victorian deserves good quality fresh produce no matter their circumstances. Foodbank’s GROW program is cutting food waste and getting fresh food on plates.”
More details on how to apply for the Power Saving Bonus will be released closer to the August launch. Victorians can compare energy offers at compare.energy.vic.gov.au or by calling 1800 000 832. For personalised energy advice, the Energy Assistance Program can be reached at 1800 161 215.
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