Thomastown Council Changes Cost-of-Living Support, Affects Thousands Monthly

Thomastown’s local government will introduce changes to key cost-of-living support programs on 1 August, with direct impacts on household expenses for residents across the city. The updated policy package, approved at council last night, adjusts eligibility for council rates concessions, increases the annual public transport allowance, and ends the temporary winter energy rebate for most local families. City finance officials estimate roughly 13,000 households-about 31 percent of all Thomastown homes-will feel the effects of at least one measure this quarter.

Cost Pressures Prompt Local Action

Rising grocery prices and mounting utility bills have placed Thomastown’s cost-of-living front and centre in recent months. Local economic data compiled for the June quarter showed an average household grocery spend of £184 per week, up 8 percent compared to last year. More than 1,200 residents have accessed council hardship support since April, according to municipal relief program records. Policy analysts say the council’s decisions are a response to steady calls for targeted relief and rebalancing of limited city funds.

The most significant change is the revision to the council rates concession. From August, the discount for pensioners and low-income earners will rise from 18 percent to 22 percent, matched by a tightening of the eligibility threshold from a household income cap of £36,000 to £34,100 annually. As a result, city modelling projects roughly 760 households-mostly dual-adult, working families-will lose access to the rates reduction, while 1,100 qualifying households will see their annual council bill reduced by an additional £54 on average. Local advocates note the move aims to preserve support for the most vulnerable but warn of a “cliff edge” for those just above the threshold.

Energy Rebate Rolls Off, Transport Bonus Increases

Another cost-of-living support, the winter energy rebate, will conclude as planned on 15 August following its introduction last year. The £75 one-off credit was credited directly to electricity bills through utility providers. A council expenditure breakdown published on Monday shows the city allocated £830,000 in 2025-26 for the rebate, benefiting 11,000 households. The government says the policy was designed as a temporary buffer during last year’s energy price spike, and is expected not to return unless wholesale costs surge again.

Separately, the council will increase the annual public transport bonus for students, jobseekers and Disability Card holders to £124, up from £95, starting with September renewals. According to council budget papers, this change is projected to help 3,600 eligible Thomastown residents cut their monthly commuting costs by nearly 17 percent. Local charities say expanded transport credits could ease job access and school attendance for lower-income families, although critics argue it does not fully offset broader cost increases elsewhere.

Households affected by the revised subsidy rules will receive official notices via post and email by 19 July, with in-person council support sessions scheduled at the Civic Centre every Thursday through August. According to the council’s implementation timeline, updated rebate and concession payments will appear on September rates bills and October utility statements.