Palaszczuk Government increases funding for vulnerable energy consumer education

Consumers in South East Queensland are being urged to regularly shop around for better electricity prices to ensure they get the best possible deal for their individual household needs.

Speaking from the SEQ electricity deregulation forum at the Yeronga Community Centre, Minister for Energy Mark Bailey announced funding to further support education and advocacy for vulnerable customers over the next four years.

“As part of the transition to a deregulated retail electricity price market in South East Queensland, the Palaszczuk Government is set to deliver an education campaign to inform consumers on how to shop around for a better electricity deal,” Mr Bailey said.

“Deregulating the market has further bolstered competition, and electricity customers will now have access to a wider range of innovative electricity products and deals – better than before.

“In developing the campaign, consultation was undertaken with more than 40 community organisations representing or providing support to vulnerable consumers.

“We are also providing $1.2 million to QCOSS over the next four years to build on their work to grow a stronger community sector which can respond to the energy and water issues faced by vulnerable consumers.

“In particular, the arrangement will build the capacity of grassroots community organisations to deliver information about energy pricing, guide people to hardship assistance, and give them the tools they need to shop around and negotiate with retailers for the best energy deals available.

“AGL Energy (AGL) are similarly supporting SEQ’s vulnerable community groups through this transition, providing $500,000 which will be used to provide grants to community organisations.”

Queensland Council of Social Service’s Mark Henley said because electricity is an essential service it is vital to ensure that all consumers, particularly low-income households and disadvantaged customers, are informed and able to take advantage of the benefits of electricity competition.

“We support having targeted programs in place to assist people who experience disadvantage or financial hardship to get better outcomes in the competitive market,” Mr Henley said.

“Through our extensive networks we will continue to help educate the community about how to engage in the market and importantly about what protections and programs are available to help in times of hardship.

AGL’s Head of Government & Community Relations Tony Chappel said AGL has a long-standing commitment to supporting communities.

“This financial commitment is about helping consumers to get the most out of the retail electricity reforms, and AGL remains committed to improving accessibility of support information for customers and in ensuring that vulnerable groups are protected,” Mr Chappel said.

“Energy affordability is a major challenge for the community, and we recognise that industry has an important role to play in working with governments and community groups to deliver effective support for vulnerable energy consumers.” 

St Vincent de Paul Society Manager of Policy and Research Gavin Dufty said South East Queensland’s retail electricity reforms could potentially affect a range of community groups.

“This support will benefit not only vulnerable groups but all South East Queenslanders who find it difficult to engage in this sometimes complicated market,” Mr Dufty said.

“Queensland has a range of community organisations which are well placed to assist potentially vulnerable consumers, and we support AGL and challenge all other retailers to make the same commitment.”

The education campaign will target consumers in south east Queensland through social and mainstream media.  Education information and support resources will be rolled out with the support of community organisations across south east Queensland.

Deregulation of south east Queensland’s retail electricity market became effective on 1 July 2016 following the recommendation of the Queensland Productivity Commission.

ENDS

Media contact: Anna Jabour 0429 890 942