Increased energy bill pain

The Albanese Labor Government has been forced into an embarrassing backflip on its ill-conceived plan to slash Australians are facing increased pain in trying to pay their residential energy bills under the Albanese Government according to figures released today by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER).

“These figures show that the policies being implemented by Chris Bowen, the part-time Energy Minister, are really hurting Australians who are clearly struggling to pay for their gas and electricity,” said Dan Tehan.

While the Albanese Government, and some state governments, have used taxpayer dollars to offer energy rebates in recent years yet more customers have been unable to pay their energy bills.

Before the 2022 election Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen promised that energy prices would be $275 lower by this Christmas, instead energy prices have gone up around $1,300.

With Christmas only a matter of weeks away and more and more Australians facing energy bill stress the Government needs to examine its policies that have led to this energy cost crisis for many people.

Australians have been let down by this Government – and what they need is affordable power and responsible action.

The Coalition has a plan that puts Australians first, with cheaper electricity and secure jobs, while still lowering emissions. This is what Australians deserve rather than Labor’s broken promises.

Proportion of residential customers with energy debt, by jurisdiction

Source: AER, Schedule 3 – Quarter 4 2024–25 retail performance data.    

Average debt of residential customers, by jurisdiction

Source: AER, Schedule 3 – Quarter 4 2024–25 retail performance data.

ENDS

Contact: Phil Connole E | philip.connole@aph.gov.au