Energy Ombudsman NSW participates in Gundagai Seniors Festival

19 Apr 2021:The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) is partnering with Gundagai Neighbourhood Centre to hold a Seniors Expo on Wednesday 21 April 2021. As a part of the NSW Seniors Festival, the event offers assistance to Seniors experiencing energy related issues. 

Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young, commented on how complex energy bills and contracts can be, “ensuring seniors get the best deal is vital.”

“We will inform Seniors about the rebates they may be entitled to, how to find the best energy deal and how to access energy affordability programs if needed. We’ll also provide information about managing bills, saving energy and dealing with providers.” 

Ms Young said many seniors share their concerns with EWON about energy affordability, and will often avoid using heating, cooling and cooking appliances because they are worried about paying their energy account – a practice that may affect their health and wellbeing.  

“Staff from EWON will listen to your concerns, review your bills and work with you to resolve any issues you have – on the spot if possible. We can also refer customers to government agencies and community organisations for support with health, housing, legal or financial problems.”  

A range of community and government agencies will also be at the event to support residents, including Health Care Complaints Commission, NSW Ombudsman, Red Cross, Seniors Rights Service, Service NSW, Services Australia, Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman, Australian Hearing, Rural Financial Counselling Service, Gundagai MPS and Residential Care, NSW Health Violence Abuse & Neglect Program, Telecross, Commonwealth Home Support Program, Relationships Australia, UPA Home Care Program, Valmar Home Care Program, Gundagai CWA, Gundagai Lions Craft and Gundagai Library. 
Customers are encouraged to bring along current and past energy and water bills, letters from retailers, Centrelink Health Cards, and any other concession cards.

Where: Gundagai District Services Club, 254 Sheridan Street, Gundagai
When: Wednesday 21 April 2021, 10am to 3pm

Find out more about this event. To request an interview with the Ombudsman email Communications Officer, Jacqui Heywood, or phone 0426 822 341.