Action needed on cost of living, says Tesch
The State Government should implement programs similar to Dine and Discover vouchers "so that we can get the much-needed support out to households as soon as possible", according to Member for Gosford Ms Liesl Tesch.
"The cost of living has fast become one of the most pressing issues facing the country and our local community," she said.
She said the inflation rate had surged to its highest level in decades at 5.1 per cent, with fuel costs up 33 per cent, electricity up 18 per cent, transport up 12 per cent and food up eight per cent.
She said the Perrottet Government needs to do more to help many who are suffering on the Central Coast.
"While there are some programmes in place such as the Low-Income Household Rebate to help those who are struggling to afford their electricity bill, I have found that many struggle to access it.
"The Liberal Government's supposed Cost of Living Program provided through Service NSW's Savings Finder tool is simply not accessible for those who struggle to navigate the layers of bureaucracy and tech savviness needed to get basic support.
"While inflation and the cost-of-living crisis is becoming a global issue due to a variety of factors, there is still meaningful and worthwhile efforts that can be made by the Government to shield our communities from the fallout of this harsh economic environment."
SOURCE:
Media release, 6 Jul 2022
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford