Abstract

The Australian Government has sought input into the design of the proposed Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. The aim of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme is to minimise the effects of climate change by reducing the carbon gases emitted within Australia, with a view to harmonising with international climate change efforts.In this submission PIAC raised concern about the impact of the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme on low-income households, with a particular focus on the effects of rising energy bills on consumers facing hardship. The submission argued for compensation and protection based on energy efficiency through measures such as in-home insulation, energy audits and the replacement of inefficient appliances.The submission also called for compensation for further rises in the cost of living to be delivered through the welfare and taxation system, to be adjusted against a basket of goods essential to low-income households.