A temporary information hub to help Albany residents with the town gas switch-off is now open at Albany Plaza as a map detailing which suburbs will be affected first is released.

The hub is offering in-person assistance to help residents claim up to $2000 so they can either switch to bottled gas or buy new electric appliances.

State Government ministers issued a three-pronged announcement on Monday which also included committing $31.8 million towards the transition and the launch of an interactive online map to show town gas customers when their switch-off is scheduled.

The first to be affected will be properties in zones one to four, planned for 2027-28.

Serpentine Road is designated zone one, with zone two covering the area bordered by Bay Street, Amity Quays, Parade Street and Duke Street.

Zone three stretches from the port to Middleton Road, while zone four includes the Middleton Beach area through to Lake Seppings.

Dates for years two and three — for example, Spencer Park, Mira Mar and the CBD — may change, according to the map, which has been drafted by current network owner ATCO.

An online portal with a dedicated phone line has also been launched, while trades can also register their interest in helping with the transition.

City of Albany mayor Greg Stocks welcomed the announcements as giving residents a clear pathway in the transition away from reticulated gas.

“Together, these measures will help to ensure the transition is accessible, well-supported, and responsive to the needs of our community,” he said.

The $31.8m of Government funding includes $22.8m to help homes and small gas-use businesses, and $9m for social housing.

Larger gas-use businesses will receive their business energy audit results followed by a tailored funding package, according to Monday’s announcement.

ATCO is chipping in $5.5m.

Energy and Decarbonisation Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson said the State Government was doing the right thing by Albany residents and businesses.

“Our $2000 electrification payment will support families to go electric, helping to offset the costs of new appliances and enabling them to save hundreds of dollars off their bills in the long run,” she said.

“Whether it’s on the ground, online or over the phone, we are committed to helping customers understand the transition and make the best choice for their energy needs.

“And, we want Albany businesses to benefit, which is why we are seeking local tradies to get involved and play a part in Albany’s energy future.”

Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby said the Government was offering a range of options to cover different needs, and urged local tradies to sign up as all conversion works would have to be done by trades registered with the transition program.

“The Albany gas transition is about making sure local households and businesses have the support they need as the network is decommissioned,” he said.

“We’re also making sure local trades have an opportunity to be involved, keeping work and economic benefits in the Great Southern as Albany transitions to a new energy future.”

Shadow minister for energy Steve Thomas said the Government’s financial package did not go far enough.

“A real and fair program to transition Albany’s reticulated gas users will cost at least $100m, and I am calling on the Government to stump up the money required to deliver a fair and adequate transition for all Albany residents,” he said.

He accused the Government of allocating 10 times as much cash towards transitioning its social housing network as it was offering private customers.

“The Labor Government is obviously prepared to cover the realistic cost of transition out of reticulated gas, but only in its own properties,” he said.

“The entire transition project is woefully underfunded and entirely unfair on the people of Albany.”

Online information is available on the WA Government website, including details on the transition process, available funding support, and next steps.

Further support is available through the helpline on 9200 6888.

The temporary information hub is opposite Coles at Albany Plaza but will move to a permanent home in the city centre in January.

It is open from noon-4.30pm Mondays-Wednesdays, and from 9am-12.30pm on Thursdays.