The Federal Government says it is too early to speculate how much the proposed carbon tax would increase household expenses, after Treasury documents revealed it may add almost $900 a year to bills.

 

Treasury documents released under Freedom of Information laws predict a carbon price would push up bills by $860 a year, or $16 per week, under a $30 per tonne carbon tax.

 

They show electricity prices would rise by $218.40 annually for the average household, gas by $114.40, petrol by $187.20 and food by $88.40.

 

Adding impacts to other goods and services, the total added cost per week of a $30 carbon tax would be $16.60, if fuel were excluded under the plan.But if fuel is included in a carbon pricing scheme, the annual cost to households is $608.

 

A $40 per tonne carbon price would add more than $1,100 per year to a household budget.

 

In a joint statement, Federal Treasurer Wayne Swan and Climate Change Minister Greg Combet said the Government had not made final decisions on the starting price or how much people will be compensated.

 

"No final decisions on the starting price or assistance have been taken and therefore it is far too early to speculate on any potential price impacts," the statement said.

 

"Until the final design and modelling have been settled, anyone who uses these figures to scare families about prices is engaging in a dishonest, misleading scare campaign.

 

"The Government has committed to use every cent raised by the carbon price, which will be paid by the biggest polluters, to support households, support jobs and tackle climate change.

 

"We will continue to consult with the community over the development of the carbon price."