For Margaret from Campbelltown, the electricity bill that arrived last month was a nasty surprise that no pensioner should have to face.
At 73, she's watching her carefully managed budget crumble as her quarterly power bill climbed from around $180 two years ago to nearly $280 today—and she's far from alone.
Across Australia, seniors are actually paying less for electricity than younger age groups on average, but that's little comfort when bills are still rising faster than the pension.
The harsh reality is that electricity prices have surged between 2.5 per cent and nearly 10 per cent this year alone, depending on where you live, hitting household budgets already stretched thin by cost-of-living pressures.
The promise that power bills would fall by $275—made by Anthony Albanese 97 times before the 2022 election—now looks like a distant memory.
At a December 2021 press conference, Labour leader Anthony Albanese promised 'electricity prices will fall from the current level by $275 for households by 2025'.
Instead, some households are now paying up to $1,027 more than what Labour promised, leaving many older Australians struggling to keep the lights on.
The numbers don't lie—and they're hitting seniors hard
Let's cut through the political noise and look at what's actually happening in your power bill. In New South Wales, electricity prices now range from 26.40c to 37.27c per kilowatt-hour, while South Australia has the highest electricity prices in Australia—a bitter irony for a state that has embraced renewable energy most enthusiastically.
The regional differences are stark. NSW residents face power price rises of between 7.8 per cent and 8.9 per cent, costing an extra $159 to $249 annually, while in the ACT, household bills will rise by an average of 10.11 per cent, or $214 per year.
For seniors on fixed incomes, these aren't just statistics—they're the difference between heating and eating.
'Growing up, the electricity bill was nothing. It was never an issue. Now it costs an absolute arm and a leg and is getting worse'
What makes this particularly galling for many older Australians is the knowledge that we should be an energy powerhouse. Australia exports seven times more coal than we burn domestically and four times more gas than we use ourselves, yet we've managed to saddle ourselves with some of the world's highest electricity prices.
The promise that wasn't kept
Three years after Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen announced every household would save $275 on energy bills, the Default Market Offer confirmed Labour would not meet its 2025 deadline.
The modelling behind this promise predated Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which triggered global energy price inflation, but Labour continued making the promise even after the invasion began.
Startling numbers from the Australian Energy Regulator reveal 116,753 people have been placed into hardship arrangements due to skyrocketing energy bills, with 192,459 people now in energy debt. Behind these statistics are real people—many of them seniors—making impossible choices between essentials.
Help is available—but you need to know where to look
Here's some better news that might not have reached your letterbox yet: there's substantial help available for seniors, but the system is frustratingly complex and varies dramatically by state.
New South Wales
The Seniors Energy Rebate offers up to $200 per household annually for self-funded retirees with a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card. There's also the Low Income Household Rebate, providing $350 annually for pensioners and eligible seniors.
Queensland
If you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Senior Health Card, or DVA card, you can receive up to $415.77, including GST, across both electricity and gas rebates.
Victoria
Victoria provides the Annual Electricity Concession, offering a percentage-based discount on electricity bills for eligible cardholders.
South Australia and beyond
Every state offers concessions, though the name, value and eligibility requirements differ between states. In the Northern Territory, the Seniors Recognition Scheme provides up to $500 annually to assist with electricity, gas, phone, and internet bills.
Federal Energy Credit for Everyone
Every Australian household automatically receives a $300 federal energy credit in 2025
Queensland adds a $1,000 bonus
Western Australia adds $400
This applies regardless of age or income
Why loyal customers pay the most
There's an uncomfortable truth about the energy market that particularly affects older Australians: older customers are often the most loyal, but when it comes to energy supply, loyalty usually doesn't pay. Market offers cheaper than the reference price typically have a specified benefit period of 12 months, after which prices can jump significantly.
Some electricity retailers offer additional discounts for senior cardholders and pensioners, and seniors may be eligible for government rebates, while younger people may live in larger households with high electricity usage needs. However, currently, only AGL and Engie offer plans specifically designed for seniors in NSW, VIC, QLD and SA.
Smart strategies for seniors
The energy market can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not comfortable with online comparisons or phone negotiations. Here are some practical steps that don't require a computer science degree:
Money-saving steps for seniors
- Call your current energy company and ask if a better deal is available
- Apply for your state's senior energy rebate if you haven't already
- Consider the AGL or Engie seniors plans if available in your area
- Set a yearly reminder to review your energy plan
- Don't just look at percentage discounts—focus on the total annual cost
The simplest way to save money on your electricity bill is to call your energy company and ask if a better deal is available. There could be greater savings if you're willing to change energy companies. Many energy companies have dedicated seniors support lines with staff trained to explain options clearly.
For those comfortable with technology, switching electricity providers annually can deliver major savings, with energy prices and discounts changing often. The key is focusing on estimated annual costs, not headline percentage discounts that may hide inflated rates.
The bigger picture—and what it means for you
The fundamental challenge facing Australia's energy system won't be solved quickly. In June 2025, renewable generation fell across all major states during colder periods, with coal and gas filling the gap.
While renewables remained the cheapest energy source, coal and gas prices surged, with gas reaching $776.21 per megawatt-hour in NSW.
This volatility is likely to continue as Australia navigates the transition to renewable energy while maintaining reliable power supply. For seniors on fixed incomes, this means energy budgeting needs to account for ongoing price volatility rather than the stable, predictable costs of decades past.
Did you know?
What does this mean for you?
The energy market will likely remain volatile for years to come. Focus on what you can control: accessing available rebates, reviewing your plan annually, and don't hesitate to ask for help from family or friends if technology isn't your strong suit. Many community centres also offer free energy bill advice sessions.
The reality is that Australia's energy policy has created a perfect storm of high prices and uncertainty. While politicians debate the merits of renewable versus nuclear versus coal power, households are left to manage the immediate impact on their budgets.
For seniors who've worked hard their entire lives and deserve energy security in retirement, the current situation is simply unacceptable. You shouldn't have to choose between heating your home and buying groceries, yet that's the reality many face.
What This Means For You
The path forward requires both individual action and systemic change. While we can't control energy policy from our kitchen tables, we can ensure we're not paying more than necessary.
Every dollar saved on electricity bills is a dollar that can go towards the things that matter—whether that's visiting grandchildren, maintaining your health, or simply having peace of mind.
If you're struggling with energy bills, remember that asking for help isn't a sign of weakness—it's smart financial management. Your local community health centre, council, or financial counselling service can provide advice tailored to your specific situation.
Have you found ways to reduce your energy bills, or discovered rebates you didn't know existed? Share your experiences in the comments below—your insights could help fellow readers navigate these challenging times.
Original Article
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/ar...tml?ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490&ito=1490
Average Electricity Bill | Australian Electricity Costs—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Seniors and 18 to 29-year-olds paid the lowest on average.
Excerpt: Across Australia, seniors are actually paying less for electricity than younger age groups on average
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/average-electricity-bills/
Average Electricity Bill | Australian Electricity Costs—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Retirees and seniors typically pay less for power on average for multiple reasons: Some electricity retailers offer additional discounts for senior ca...
Excerpt: Across Australia, seniors are actually paying less for electricity than younger age groups on average
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/average-electricity-bills/
The Australian Energy Regulator releases new default electricity prices | energy.gov.au
Cited text: Residential consumers will see increases ranging from 0.5 per cent to 9.7 per cent depending on their usage and location.
Excerpt: electricity prices have surged between 2.5 per cent and nearly 10 per cent this year alone, depending where you live
https://www.energy.gov.au/news/australian-energy-regulator-releases-new-default-electricity-prices
Australia: Electricity prices to rise by up to 10 percent—World Socialist Web Site
Cited text: Residents of NSW, the country’s most-populous state, face power price rises of between 7.8 percent and 8.9 percent, costing an extra $159 to $249 annu...
Excerpt: electricity prices have surged between 2.5 per cent and nearly 10 per cent this year alone, depending where you live
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/06/11/nbww-j11.html
Australia: Electricity prices to rise by up to 10 percent—World Socialist Web Site
Cited text: In South Australia, prices will rise by 4.4 percent to 5.2 percent, or around $120 per year.
Excerpt: electricity prices have surged between 2.5 per cent and nearly 10 per cent this year alone, depending where you live
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/06/11/nbww-j11.html
Promise check: Cut power bills for households by $275 a year by 2025 compared to before the election—RMIT University
Cited text: Releasing the plan and the modelling at a December 3, 2021, press conference, Labor leader Anthony Albanese said it would see 'electricity prices fall...
Excerpt: At a December 2021 press conference, Labor leader Anthony Albanese promised 'electricity prices fall from the current level by $275 for households by 2025'
https://www.rmit.edu.au/about/schoo...try/promise-tracker/cut-household-power-bills
Labor's $275 price promise officially broken | Liberal Party of Australia
Cited text: The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that Labor has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equi...
Excerpt: some households are now paying up to $1,027 more than what Labor promised
https://www.liberal.org.au/latest-news/2024/03/19/labors-275-price-promise-officially-broken
Labor's $275 Price Promise Officially Broken—Liberal Party NSW
Cited text: The draft Default Market Offer has confirmed that Labor has fallen short by up to $1,027 of its promised price reduction for everyday households, equi...
Excerpt: some households are now paying up to $1,027 more than what Labor promised
https://nswliberal.org.au/emma-king/news/labor-s-$275-price-promise-officially-broken
2025 Cost of Electricity per kWh: State-by-State Breakdown | EcoFlow IT
Cited text: Electricity prices in New South Wales range from 26.40c/kWh to 37.27c/kWh, with an average price of around 32.51c/kWh.
Excerpt: In New South Wales, electricity prices now range from 26.40c to 37.27c per kilowatt-hour
https://www.ecoflow.com/au/blog/cost-of-electricity-per-kwh
2025 Cost of Electricity per kWh: State-by-State Breakdown | EcoFlow IT
Cited text: South Australia has the highest electricity prices in Australia.
Excerpt: South Australia has the highest electricity prices in Australia
https://www.ecoflow.com/au/blog/cost-of-electricity-per-kwh
Australia: Electricity prices to rise by up to 10 percent—World Socialist Web Site
Cited text: In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), household bills will rise by an average of 10.11 percent, or $214 per year.
Excerpt: in the ACT, household bills will rise by an average of 10.11 per cent, or $214 per year
https://www.wsws.org/en/articles/2025/06/11/nbww-j11.html
Media release—Three years on from Labor's broken $275 promise—Melissa McIntosh MP
Cited text: Today marks three years since Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen announced every household in Australia would save $275 on their energy bills if Labor w...
Excerpt: Three years after Anthony Albanese and Chris Bowen announced every household would save $275 on energy bills, the Default Market Offer confirmed Labor would not meet its 2025 deadline
https://www.melissamcintosh.com.au/media_release_three_years_on_from_labor_s_broken_275_promise
Promise check: Cut power bills for households by $275 a year by 2025 compared to before the election—RMIT University
Cited text: The RepuTex modelling predated Russia's invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, which triggered global energy price inflation.
Excerpt: predated Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which triggered global energy price inflation
https://www.rmit.edu.au/about/schoo...try/promise-tracker/cut-household-power-bills
ParlInfo - $275 energy price promise—officially broken
Cited text: As a sign of the suffering faced by everyday Australian households, startling new numbers from the AER have also revealed 116,753 people have been pla...
Excerpt: Startling numbers from the Australian Energy Regulator reveal 116,753 people have been placed into hardship arrangements due to skyrocketing energy bills, with 192,459 people now in energy debt
https://parlinfo.aph.gov.au/parlInf...t22media/pressrel/9654626 per cent22;src1=sm1
Senior Energy Rebates Australia | State-by-State Guide 2025
Cited text: The Seniors Energy Rebate in NSW is available to self-funded retirees with a primary residence in New South Wales and offers up to $200 per household ...
Excerpt: The Seniors Energy Rebate offers up to $200 per household annually for self-funded retirees with a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
https://selectra.com.au/energy/market/seniors
Senior Energy Rebates Australia | State-by-State Guide 2025
Cited text: To be eligible for the $200 Senior Energy Rebate in New South Wales, you must meet the following criteria: ...
Excerpt: The Seniors Energy Rebate offers up to $200 per household annually for self-funded retirees with a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card
https://selectra.com.au/energy/market/seniors
Energy rebates for seniors by state
Cited text: Eligible NSW residents can receive an annual payment of $350 through this concession.
Excerpt: the Low Income Household Rebate providing $350 annually for pensioners and eligible seniors
https://compareclub.com.au/energy/energy-rebates-for-seniors/
Senior Energy Rebates Australia | State-by-State Guide 2025
Cited text: If you qualify for both energy rebates you can receive a total of $415.77 including GST.
Excerpt: If you hold a Pensioner Concession Card, Senior Health Card, or DVA card, you can receive up to $415.77 including GST across both electricity and gas rebates
https://selectra.com.au/energy/market/seniors
Energy rebates for seniors by state
Cited text: Likewise, Victoria provides the Annual Electricity Concession, which offers a percentage-based discount on electricity bills.
Excerpt: Victoria provides the Annual Electricity Concession, offering a percentage-based discount on electricity bills
https://compareclub.com.au/energy/energy-rebates-for-seniors/
Energy Plans For Seniors | Providers And Prices—Canstar Blue
Cited text: In NT and TAS, you must have an active Department of Veterans Affairs Pension Concession Card (DVA PCC) to be eligible for their respective energy con...
Excerpt: the name, value and eligibility requirements differ between states
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/energy-plans-seniors-pensioners/
Energy rebates for seniors by state
Cited text: This scheme provides up to $500 annually to assist with expenses such as electricity, gas, phone, and internet bills, as well as fuel, travel, and acc...
Excerpt: In the Northern Territory, the Seniors Recognition Scheme provides up to $500 annually to assist with electricity, gas, phone, and internet bills
https://compareclub.com.au/energy/energy-rebates-for-seniors/
Energy Plans For Seniors | Providers And Prices—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Older customers are often the most loyal, but when it comes to energy supply, loyalty usually doesn’t pay.
Excerpt: older customers are often the most loyal, but when it comes to energy supply, loyalty usually doesn't pay
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/energy-plans-seniors-pensioners/
Energy Plans For Seniors | Providers And Prices—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Typically, market offers cheaper than the reference price (or Victorian Default Offer) in your state have a specified benefit period of 12 months.
Excerpt: Market offers cheaper than the reference price typically have a specified benefit period of 12 months
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/energy-plans-seniors-pensioners/
Average Electricity Bill | Australian Electricity Costs—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Younger people may live in larger households with high electricity usage needs, while older energy customers are more likely to have a solar system in...
Excerpt: Some electricity retailers offer additional discounts for senior cardholders and pensioners, and seniors may be eligible for government rebates, while younger people may live in larger households with high electricity usage needs
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/average-electricity-bills/
Energy Plans For Seniors | Providers And Prices—Canstar Blue
Cited text: Currently, AGL and Engie are the only energy providers with a plan specifically for seniors in NSW, VIC, QLD and SA.
Excerpt: currently, only AGL and Engie offer plans specifically designed for seniors in NSW, VIC, QLD and SA
https://www.canstarblue.com.au/electricity/energy-plans-seniors-pensioners/
Electricity prices and plans | ACCC
Cited text: The simplest way to save money on your electricity bill is to call your energy company and ask if a better deal is available. There could be greater s...
Excerpt: The simplest way to save money on your electricity bill is to call your energy company and ask if a better deal is available.
https://www.accc.gov.au/consumers/specific-products-and-activities/electricity-prices-and-plans
Cheapest Electricity Plans in Australia (2025) | Compare Prices & Providers | Solar Choice
Cited text: ... Switch Electricity Providers: Review and switch plans every 12 months to avoid loyalty penalties.
Excerpt: switching electricity providers annually can deliver major savings, with energy prices and discounts changing often
https://www.solarchoice.net.au/energy/electricity-comparison/
Cheapest Electricity Plans in Australia (2025) | Compare Prices & Providers | Solar Choice
Cited text: Recompare Annually: Energy prices and discounts change often. Set a reminder to review your plan every 12 months to stay on the best deal.
Excerpt: switching electricity providers annually can deliver major savings, with energy prices and discounts changing often
https://www.solarchoice.net.au/energy/electricity-comparison/
Cheapest Electricity Plans in Australia (2025) | Compare Prices & Providers | Solar Choice
Cited text: Compare Total Costs, Not Just Discounts: Focus on the estimated annual cost, not headline percentage discounts that may hide inflated rates.
Excerpt: focusing on estimated annual costs, not headline percentage discounts that may hide inflated rates
https://www.solarchoice.net.au/energy/electricity-comparison/
June 2025 Electricity Market Review—Leading Edge Energy
Cited text: · In June 2025, renewable generation fell across all major NEM states, with coal and gas filling the gap during colder, low-output periods. NSW, VIC, ...
Excerpt: In June 2025, renewable generation fell across all major states during colder periods, with coal and gas filling the gap
https://leadingedgeenergy.com.au/news/electricity-market-review-latest/
June 2025 Electricity Market Review—Leading Edge Energy
Cited text: · Renewables remained the cheapest source of energy (as low as $86.85/MWh in QLD), while coal and gas prices surged, with gas reaching $776.21/MWh in ...
Excerpt: While renewables remained the cheapest energy source, coal and gas prices surged, with gas reaching $776.21 per megawatt-hour in NSW
https://leadingedgeenergy.com.au/news/electricity-market-review-latest/
Seniors Discount Club
Latest Articles
-
-
This 30kg 'monster' in house roof shows why every Australian home needs urgent protection
- Started by Gian T
- Replies: 0
-
Everyone’s talking about this Kmart hat—but is it worth the $6 price tag?
- Started by Maan
- Replies: 0
-
Startling scene shows magpie swooping behaviour reaching alarming levels this season
- Started by Gian T
- Replies: 0
-
