Ahead of the release of the federal budget, the government has extended the $150 energy bill rebate for households. 

Sofie Formica said on Afternoons, "It's a gesture that's meant to soothe the growing strain on household budgets and to acknowledge the pain of increased energy prices, but how effective is it really?"

"$150 might provide a little relief for some, certainly for some more than others, but it's hardly a long-term solution to the continued escalation of energy costs that continue to squeeze families and businesses and supply chains."

"It's a one-off payment, and it cannot mask the underlying issue that remains," Sofie continued. 

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