Energy Regulator Proposes Up to 9% Power Price Hike Across Eastern Australia
Households in New South Wales, South-East Queensland, and South Australia face significant electricity bill increases starting July, intensifying cost-of-living pressures.
- The Australian Energy Regulator's draft decision proposes raising benchmark electricity prices by 2.5% to 8.9% in several states, with finalization expected in May.
- New South Wales customers are projected to see the highest increases, with annual bills rising by up to $200 for some households.
- Energy ministers have urged the regulator to scrutinize retailer costs and profit margins, emphasizing the need to address cost-of-living challenges.
- Research highlights the severe impact of rising energy costs, with many Australians skipping meals, medication, or cooling to manage bills.
- Consumers are encouraged to shop around for better energy deals, while calls for government-backed energy efficiency and solar initiatives are intensifying.
Australian Broadcasting Corporation 
The Sydney Morning Herald 
9News 
SBS News 
The Guardian 