Australian food and beverage manufacturers across Australia who are seeking to lower their energy costs and reduce emissions have been snubbed by the Albanese Labor Government.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Minster for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen have failed to deliver small grants to 800 businesses such as wineries, breweries, coffee roasters, bakers and ice-cream makers that were successful applicants in the Energy Efficiency Communities (EEC) grants program.
The EEC program made grants between $10,000 and $25,000 available through a competitive process for businesses to implement energy efficiency practices and technologies, and better manage energy consumption to reduce their power bills.
Federal Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry said, “Within my electorate of Capricornia, there are four local businesses that have been successful in their application for the EEC grants program yet have heard nothing from the Labor Government.
“Given the rise in electricity and running costs to small business, these grants, of up to $25,000, will go a long way towards paying the bills and keeping the doors of these small businesses open.
“If the Labor Government are going to continue increasing energy costs, they need to honour the commitment on these EEC grants and support small business in Central Queensland,” Ms Landry said.
Federal Member for Flynn, Colin Boyce said there were 4 successful local businesses in his electorate that have now been forced to put their project on hold as Labor stalls.
“Every day that Labor delays ultimately means higher power prices for these small businesses,” Mr Boyce said.
“One of the successful applicants is Gracemere Bakery on Lawrie Street that has been approved for $24,620 to increase energy efficiency and decrease energy use.
“I call on the Albanese Labor Government to quit playing politics and to provide these businesses with the certainty they require by honouring this investment.”
Successful projects were chosen through a competitive grants process led by the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources after considering them for eligibility and completeness.
