Which states allow you to switch energy retailers?

If you live in any of the following areas, you have a choice of electricity suppliers to choose from: Australian Capital Territory New South Wales South Australia South-East Queensland Victoria Tasmania However, if you live in Tasmania or the Northern Territory , you’ll have less choice and more limited options due to a reduced number of providers operating in those areas. Western Australians and those living in regional Queensland (outside of the south-east) may not have a choice about their provider. In addition, natural gas energy plans are not available in the NT so if you wish to switch gas providers in that state you will have to choose between LPG bottled gas providers.

Can I still switch energy plans if I'm on a fixed contract?

If you're on a fixed-rate energy plan, you may be locked into that plan for a fixed period of time, often one to two years. If this is the case, and you are in the middle of your fixed term contract, you may have to pay exit fees to switch providers before the end of the contract. However, if your contract offers a variable rate for your electricity tariff, there may be no lock-in time period so you can switch providers at any time without incurring any fees.

Will I need to replace my meter when I switch energy providers?

No – you won't need to replace your meter when you switch providers. Your new provider will use the same meter, meaning there won’t be an extra cost associated with installing a new one.

Will I experience any interruption to my energy supply when switching?

No – you won’t experience any interruption to your energy supply when switching providers. Your old provider will continue to supply your energy until the switch is complete, at which point your new provider will take over.

Can I switch providers if I'm in debt to my current provider?

Yes – you can still switch retailers even if you owe money to your current provider. However, you'll need to pay off any outstanding balance you owe to your old provider before you can make the switch.

Do I need to contact my old provider when switching energy providers?

No – your new provider will take care of the switch for you. They'll contact your old provider and arrange the disconnection and reconnection of your energy supply. You may need to provide some details to your new provider, such as your current meter reading, but they’ll guide you through the whole process.

How often should I look at switching energy providers?

It’s worth comparing energy plans at least every 12 months to make sure that you’re still getting the best deal on your energy plans. However, before making the switch, make sure there are no exit fees that might make switching expensive before the end of your contract period.

What happens if I change my mind after switching providers?

If you change your mind after switching providers, you'll have a cooling-off period during which you can cancel the contract without penalty. The length of the cooling-off period varies depending on the provider and the state or territory in which you live.