South Australian families are struggling to pay their energy bills due to Labor’s Net Zero obsession, explosive new data reveals.

According to the latest Annual Report from South Australia’s Energy & Water Ombudsman, cases involving consumer disconnections increased by 60 per cent in 2025-26, while cases relating to payment difficulties rose by 51 per cent.

According to the Ombudsman, the sharp rise in complaints, “signals increased household stress, rising energy debt across the system, and a growing need for rapid intervention.” The Ombudsman further stated, “Cost of living pressures and growing vulnerability continue to shape our caseload, alongside more nuanced challenges as consumers navigate new technologies and the renewable energy transition.”

South Australia is a Net Zero poster child, having the highest penetration of renewables of any jurisdiction in Australia.

Shadow Minister for Energy and Emissions Reduction Dan Tehan said Labor’s energy policies were hurting South Australian families.

“Labor’s Net Zero agenda is sending Australian families to the wall, as this latest data from South Australia confirms,” Mr Tehan said.

“Instead of conducting a world tour to attend climate conferences, Chris Bowen needs to be focused on delivering his promised $275 cut to power bills.

“Energy ideology doesn’t pay the bills, securing cheap and abundant energy does.”

The Coalition will scrap Net Zero and leverage all our abundant resources to deliver cheaper energy for all Australians.

ENDS

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