The South Australia Business Chamber advocates doubling the current $650 energy rebates provided by both state and federal governments, citing soaring costs for small businesses. These concerns were highlighted in their 2024-2025 state budget wishlist, emphasizing the state's highest average electricity bills in the nation, reaching $10,425, with a significant price hike of $1,935 between October 2022 and October 2023.
Despite the $650 relief scheme implemented last year, the Business Chamber contends it falls short of addressing escalating electricity costs. They urge the state government to double the relief to $1300 in the next fiscal year.
This call extends to Canberra, where Treasurer Jim Chalmers is preparing to announce the 2023-2024 federal budget. However, recent comments from Chalmers suggest major rebate support is unlikely, leaving South Australian lawmakers to consider independent measures.
Chalmers emphasizes fiscal responsibility in the upcoming budget, focusing on incentives for the private sector rather than additional public funds. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese revealed that $585 million in government loans will be provided to critical minerals projects in South Australia and Queensland, while the government's Future Made in Australia platform prioritizes targeted tax incentives and concessions for future-proof industries.
Notably, energy rebates have not emerged as a feature of the scheme or the upcoming federal budget.