This Seniors Month, older Canberrans are being encouraged to take advantage of free events designed to help them make their homes more comfortable and energy efficient.

The ACT Government’s Home Energy Support Program offers eligible concession card holders up to $5,000 in rebates and a $10,000 interest-free loan to support upgrades such as reverse cycle heating and cooling systems, ceiling insulation, hot water heating systems, electric cooktops and rooftop solar. These upgrades can significantly reduce energy bills and improve year-round comfort.

To help seniors learn more and access these supports, a free morning tea and workshop will be held on Monday 8 September at the ACT Government office in Dickson. Attendees will hear from home energy experts about practical ways to reduce energy costs, including switching from gas to electric appliances, using induction cooking, and maximising solar benefits. The session will also explain how to apply for rebates and loans.

For those needing more personalised assistance, free one-on-one drop-in help sessions will be available at the same location across four weekdays: 10 September, 18 September, 1 October and 8 October. Staff will be available to guide attendees through the application process and answer questions. No bookings are required.

Join the FREE workshop and morning tea to learn how Canberra Seniors can make their homes more comfortable and reduce their energy bills! Call 1300 141 777 to register.

Don, a local pensioner, used the program to replace his gas heating system.

“My bills for gas heating were increasing dramatically, and I wanted the freedom to use my heating without the dread of large energy bills,” he said.

Canberrans who have accessed the rebate are saving hundreds each year, with rooftop solar offering up to $1,500 in annual savings. The program is helping seniors stay warm, save money, and make their homes more sustainable.

For more information or to register, climatechoices.act.gov.au/hesp