Trouble paying your electricity and water bills?
We may be able to help you.
About HUGS
HUGS is a State Government scheme which provides financial assistance to help people with money problems pay their water, gas and electricity bills so their supply is not cut off.
Can I get HUGS?
You must be unable to pay a current bill and be at risk of disconnection or already be disconnected.
Your must be experiencing money problems.
HUGS pays 85% of the bill. You will have to pay the other 15%.
Generally, HUGS pays up to a maximum of $380. If you live in or north of Carnarvon, this can be up to $635.
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How do I apply?
You must first contact Synergy, Horizon Power, Alinta or the Water Corporation to discuss your problem.
If they believe you have money problems, they will ask you to go to see a HUGS Registered Financial Counselling Service for an assessment and application to be completed.
HUGS and financial counselling
As well as helping people pay their electricity, gas and water bills, HUGS can also help you get financial counselling.
The financial counsellor you see to apply for HUGS can help you sort out your financial problems both in the short and long term.
Find out more about financial counselling. (External site)
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Contact information
HUGS Unit
Department for Child Protection
189 Royal Street
East Perth WA 6004
Telephone 9222 2739
Email HUGS2@dcp.wa.gov.au
Synergy 13 13 53
Horizon Power 1800 267 926
Water Corporation 13 13 85
Alinta 13 13 58
Publications
HUGS Information and Guidelines September 2009 (PDF)
HUGS Information Sheet September 2009 (PDF)
These are available in alternative formats if requested.
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