Hundreds of Queenslanders living with multiple sclerosis who rely on air-conditioning to manage their symptoms will benefit from a $216 electricity rebate, announced today in the State Budget.
People on low incomes with heat and cold intolerant conditions like MS will be eligible for an annual discount on their electricity bills; a move welcomed by the MS Society of Queensland.
The announcement today of an electricity rebate for people with MS is fantastic news and shows great recognition by Treasurer Andrew Fraser, Energy Minister Stephen Robertson and the Bligh government for the issues facing people with multiple sclerosis.
Out of necessity, people with MS use air-conditioners almost 15 times as much as the average Australian and the cost of doing so is very high, he said.
MS Queensland has been campaigning with Rights in Action, Parkinson’s Queensland, the Queensland Council of Social Services, Spinal Injuries Association and other organisations for a medical cooling and heating rebate for several months.
Today’s announcement comes two weeks after it was confirmed electricity prices in Queensland would rise 13 per cent from next month, making it a timely acknowledgement.
Find out how to apply here.
