Despite existing financial assistance for almost three million households, many people in Australia still cannot afford to pay for the energy they need. This report looks at what is required to deliver effective energy concessions, summarises the research findings, and makes a series of recommendations.

The Essential Services Commission promotes protections for consumers experiencing vulnerability and supports access to regulated essential services for all Victorian consumers. A key objective of the commission is breaking down the barriers consumers can face when seeking information and assistance.

This strategy addresses consumer’s experience of vulnerability and aims to break down the barriers faced when accessing and engaging with essential services.

This draft strategy aims to ensure the Victorian Essential Services Commission’s work supports access to essential services for consumers experiencing vulnerability.

This report documents the deliberative community engagement program delivered to inform Vulnerability Strategy to facilitate more equitable access to essential services.