The NSW Social Programs for Energy (SPE) Code (the Code) is the mechanism that implements government support for energy affordability and fairness. The structure of the code and the language it uses can have material impacts on how effectively it is. That’s why our joint response to the proposed amendments to the NSW Social Programs for Energy Code supports some of the proposed changes, while recommending other important changes including:
- Making equity a clear guiding principle in the Code, to ensure it is applied consistently and in line with its fundamental intent to support energy affordability;
- Strengthening retailer information obligations so they provide meaningful, accessible information aligned with national hardship frameworks;
- Making fraud, verification and consent frameworks fairer and safer, so system errors or confusing admin processes don’t impact access to support, and;
- Improving alignment between EAPA and retailer hardship programs so that people experiencing crisis receive mandatory coordinated support.
What’s next?
We will continue our long-term engagement with updates and reforms of the code, as well as support further reform of energy rebates and supports that support equitable access to affordable energy for all NSW households.
