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How to compare energy plans in Australia

Comparing electricity and gas plans in Australia starts with your postcode. Energy prices are set at a local level — your distributor, meter type, and state regulations all influence the rates available to you. EnergyPlans is an independent comparison platform that uses regulated AER and ESC benchmark data to show you the real cost of plans in your area, with no hidden agendas. Enter your postcode, see plans from multiple retailers side by side, and switch online in minutes.

Why electricity prices vary by state

Electricity prices in Australia differ substantially from state to state. Network costs — the charges for maintaining poles, wires, and substations — make up roughly 40–50% of a typical bill and are set by local distributors such as Ausgrid in NSW, CitiPower in Victoria, and Energex in Queensland. State governments also set different regulatory benchmarks: the Default Market Offer (DMO) applies in NSW, South Australia, and South-East Queensland, while Victoria uses the Victorian Default Offer (VDO). These benchmarks cap standing-offer prices and give you a reference point when comparing market offers. States with higher network costs or lower generation competition tend to have more expensive electricity. You can explore detailed pricing on our electricity prices by state page, or read individual reports for NSW, Victoria, and other states.

What to look for in an electricity or gas plan

Not every cheap headline rate is actually the cheapest deal. When comparing energy plans, pay attention to these key factors:

• Usage rate (c/kWh) — the per-unit charge for the electricity or gas you consume. Plans with lower usage rates save more for higher-consumption households.
• Daily supply charge — a fixed daily fee charged regardless of how much energy you use. A low usage rate paired with a high supply charge can still be expensive.
• Discounts and conditions — some retailers offer pay-on-time or direct-debit discounts, but these may revert to a higher rate if you miss a payment.
• Contract length and exit fees — most residential plans today are no-lock-in, but always check the fine print for benefit periods or early-exit fees.
• Solar feed-in tariff — if you have rooftop solar, the rate your retailer pays for exported electricity can make a real difference to your annual bill.
• Green energy options — many retailers offer GreenPower or carbon-offset plans at a small premium if you want to reduce your environmental impact.

How switching energy providers works

Switching electricity or gas providers in Australia is straightforward and free. Once you choose a new plan, the new retailer handles the entire process — there is no interruption to your power supply, because the physical network is managed by your local distributor regardless of who bills you. The switch typically completes within a few business days for smart meters, or up to two weeks for older meter types. Under Australian Consumer Law, you have a 10-business-day cooling-off period after signing up, during which you can cancel without penalty. You can start comparing plans now on our energy comparison page.

Compare electricity plans by state and suburb

Frequently asked questions about comparing energy plans