Energy data sources

    This page explains where our data comes from, how we use it, and what limitations apply. We aim to be transparent about the inputs behind our comparison tools, reports, and pricing estimates.

    Australian Energy Regulator (AER)

    The AER publishes the Default Market Offer (DMO) for NSW, SA, and south-east Queensland. We use DMO benchmarks as reference points for comparing plan costs against the regulated maximum price. The AER also publishes retailer performance data and compliance reports that inform our analysis.

    aer.gov.au

    Essential Services Commission (ESC)

    The ESC publishes the Victorian Default Offer (VDO), which serves as the price safety net and comparison benchmark for Victorian electricity consumers. We use VDO data as the baseline for our Victorian pricing analysis.

    esc.vic.gov.au

    Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO)

    AEMO operates the National Electricity Market and publishes wholesale spot prices, demand forecasts, and generation data. We use AEMO data to contextualise retail price trends and understand wholesale market conditions.

    aemo.com.au

    Distributor zone benchmarks

    We maintain benchmark data for each of Australia's major electricity distribution networks (e.g. Ausgrid, Energex, CitiPower, SA Power Networks, Western Power). This data includes typical usage rates, supply charges, and estimated annual bill ranges for each zone. These benchmarks are updated when new regulatory determinations or tariff changes are published.

    Retailer published plan data

    Where available, we reference Basic Plan Information Documents (BPIDs) and Energy Price Fact Sheets published by retailers. These documents disclose usage rates, supply charges, discounts, and contract terms. We do not fabricate specific plan prices; where plan-level data is not available, we use zone-level benchmark estimates and label them as indicative.

    Comparison partner data

    Plans available through our comparison partner (Compare & Connect) are sourced from that partner's retailer agreements. The plans shown via the comparison tool may not include every retailer or every plan available in the market. We clearly label when a link leads to our comparison partner.

    Data limitations

    • *Our data does not cover every plan from every retailer. Coverage depends on publicly available information and our comparison partner's retailer agreements.
    • *Prices change frequently. The figures on our site reflect the most recent data available at the time of publication but may not reflect today's live rates.
    • *Estimated annual bills are based on typical household usage profiles and should be treated as indicative, not as retail quotes.
    • *States with regulated markets (WA, NT, and parts of TAS and QLD) have different data structures and more limited plan availability.