New laws to make gas retailers deliver for pensioners

Gas retailers are now legally bound to provide a $55 a year gas rebate to pensioners on reticulated natural gas after legislation was passed in State Parliament today.

Mines and Energy Minister Geoff Wilson said that all bills going out to customers from the end of March must now invite eligible pensioners to register for the rebate.

“No one will miss out and regardless of when eligible customers receive notification of their rebate, it will be back-dated to 1 July 2007,” Mr Wilson said.

The State Government brought in the legislation after gas retailers Origin and AGL admitted the rebate was not being passed on to pensioners because of technical problems.

Last week the Minister held top level talks with Origin and AGL and told them to sort out their problems.

“Frankly, I told them it’s not good enough. We announced this gas rebate late last year to help ease the burden on pensioners already under pressure from the increased cost of living,” he said.

“You’d think the retailers would want to do the right thing by their customers without the government having to legislate to force them to act,” he said.

The State Government is also concerned about price increases in the residential gas market.

“I’ve informed the Queensland Competition Authority that they will be required to review the extent of competition in the residential gas industry.

“Gas prices, like electricity prices, should only reflect the true cost of supply. It’s called a fair playing field,” he said.

The Gas Supply amendment Bill 2008 introduces a new section into the Gas Supply Act 2003, placing a legal obligation on gas retailers to provide the rebate.

Media Inquiries: Ellen McIntyre 3225 1819