Calls for unpaid utility bills of struggling families to be wiped as Christmas reprieve

There are calls for the gas, electricity and water bills for struggling families to be completely wiped as a Christmas reprieve.

The Victorian Council of Social Service is behind the move.

The “utility debt demolition payment” would be paid for by the taxpayer and would be aimed at helping low income households.

“The latest data from the essentials services commission showed the average energy debt for struggling families during COVID increased to more than $1800 a household,” Emma King, CEO of VCOSS, told 3AW Drive.

“What we know that is when you’ve racked up $1800 of debt around an essential service – remember, energy is an essential service– it’s impossible to get your head above water and continue.

“People have been following the health advice, staying safe and staying home and this is one of the unintended consequences.”

Press PLAY below to hear her explain the idea

Picture: Getty iStock