Getting a better deal on your energy bill
The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) has today introduced the mandatory Better Bills Guideline. This will require energy retailers to tell their customers, by a glance at their power bill, whether they could be on a better offer and how to switch.
Energy retailers in Queensland, NSW, ACT, South Australia and Tasmania will implement the guideline in 2023.
AER Chair Ms Clare Savage said the new requirements were a key part of the regulator’s push to support consumers, especially those experiencing vulnerability.
‘Over time, energy bills have become more complex and detailed, and our research revealed that this can reduce understanding and create confusion,’ Ms Savage said.
‘We’ve listened and we have taken a tiered approach to information, restricting the amount of content allowed on the first page to ensure simple, clean design. At first glance, this will give customers the essentials and tell them whether they might switch and save. That’s a great outcome for consumers.’
The guideline also requires clear contact information on how customers can switch, whether conditions apply, and a reference to the AER’s bill comparison website.
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