The New South Wales Government will relaunch its Washing Machine Exchange Program, offering 6,500 discounted front-loading machines to pensioners, veterans and social housing tenants in a bid to cut household water and electricity bills.
Under the scheme, eligible concession card holders can purchase a new 8kg energy-efficient front loader for $250 by trading in an old top-loading machine. The price includes delivery anywhere in NSW, professional installation, removal and recycling of the old appliance and a two-year warranty.
The $11 million initiative, now in its second year, follows strong demand during the first round when more than 5,000 machines were taken up within days.
Water Minister Rose Jackson said the program was designed to ease pressure on households facing rising costs.
“This program is about delivering real, practical cost-of-living relief for people who need it most. By replacing old top loaders with modern, efficient machines, we’re cutting water and power bills by up to $300 a year, while making everyday essentials more affordable,” she said.
“Last time we sold out of washing machines in next to no time, which was a huge win but left some people disappointed to have missed out.
“Now we’re back with more washers to take our water savings to the next level and hopefully reach people who weren’t able to get one last time.”
The government says households can reduce combined water and power costs by up to $300 a year through the switch to more efficient appliances. It expects water savings from the latest round to exceed 230 million litres by the end of the program. Around 107 million litres have already been saved, an amount the government says would run a shower continuously for 27 years.
The program forms part of the state’s broader Water Efficiency Program aimed at reducing overall water use.
Veterans Minister David Harris said the initiative would provide targeted assistance.
“It is fantastic that this initiative is returning to help ease cost of living pressures for veterans, pensioners and social housing tenants,” he said.
“We owe our veterans an unpayable debt for their service and sacrifice, so the least we can do to assist in lowering their energy bills.
“I encourage all veterans to consider applying for one of these new heavily discounted washing machines.”
Seniors Minister Jodie Harrison said the scheme had already assisted many older residents.
“This program has benefited hundreds of eligible seniors and it’s wonderful that it is being rolled out again,” she said.
“With the current cost-of-living pressures that our seniors are facing, this program gives them a new washing machine at a discounted price, and potential savings on their bills with a more efficient, new one.
“Seniors should get in quick and register, as the last program sold out within days.”
The program is delivered in partnership with retailer The Good Guys Commercial. Managing Director Biag Capasso said supply arrangements were in place across the state.
“We’ve partnered with big Brands to source and be ready to deliver these washing machines across the state,” he said.
“Our partnership with the NSW Government has already helped thousands of families live better for less, and we’re excited to be back for another round.”
Applications are open to eligible concession card holders across New South Wales, with places expected to fill quickly based on previous demand.
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