Australian Energy Regulator announces modest discounts to default market offer in NSW, South Australia, vows to 'protect' households from high energy bills
However the default offer is set to rise by 4.2 per cent in Queensland, representing an increase of about $83 a year. AER chair Clare Savage said the regulator understood the pressure on household budgets and urged those struggling to pay bills to contact their provider"as soon as possible" for assistance.
"Your retailer is also required to tell you on the front page of your bill, at least every 100 days, if they can offer you a better deal. Most retailers have cheaper deals than the standing offer, so shopping around remains the best way to get the best price." This had been a major factor in rising power bills for parts of Queensland, Ms Savage explained, although the regulator said recently announced government assistance should"more than offset any increases."
Under the new DMO customers in New South Wales could see power bills fall by between $86 and $303 in real terms - accounting for inflation - while those in south-east Queensland could see either a $53 decrease or an $8 increase. Picture: Getty Images