About the Hardship Utility Grant Scheme (HUGS)
HUGS can cover up to 85% of an outstanding utility bill. The maximum is $640 if you live south of the 26th parallel, roughly south of Denham, and $1,060 north of it, where living costs are higher.
It is a last step, not a first one. You need a payment arrangement of at least 90 days with your provider, kept to, and other hardship strategies used first. Your provider then starts the application with you.
HUGS covers utilities including electricity and water. Call your provider early if you are struggling, because the 90-day arrangement has to be in place before a grant is possible.
Who can get it
- You are in financial hardship and cannot pay your utility bill.
- You have set up a payment arrangement of at least 90 days with your provider and kept to it, and other hardship options have been exhausted.
How to apply
- Contact your utility provider, such as Synergy, Horizon Power or your water provider, and ask about hardship support.
- Once a payment arrangement is in place and kept, your provider can start a HUGS application with you.
How it is paid: To your utility account, covering up to 85% of the amount owed.
Contact: WA Department of Communities, HUGS. Official information.
Moving or switching retailer?
Concessions applied by your retailer do not always move with you. When you move house or switch, give your card details to the new retailer and check the next bill. See how to claim a concession.
Other energy help in Western Australia
- Energy Assistance Payment: $377.14 a year.
- Dependent Child Rebate: $396.56 for one child, plus $103.91 for each additional child.
- Air Conditioning Rebate: $78.98 a year.
- Life Support Equipment Energy Subsidy: $58 to $1,517 a year per item.
- Thermoregulatory Dysfunction Energy Subsidy: $832 a year.
See every program on our Western Australia rebates page.
Common questions
Up to 85% of the outstanding amount, capped at $640 south of the 26th parallel and $1,060 north of it, according to the WA Government.
A payment arrangement with your provider of at least 90 days that you have kept to, with other hardship strategies exhausted.
Your utility provider starts the application with you once the payment arrangement requirement is met.
Sources
Every rate on this page comes from the regulator or the regulated retailer. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.