Currently, only AGL is offering a plan explicitly designed for seniors. Switching from your current plan could result in additional benefits and save you money.
As a senior you shouldn't have to worry about the rising cost of energy prices. It's important to consider switching energy providers if you think you may be paying too much and haven't shopped around in a while; doing so may lead to more savings.
The annual estimated electricity prices are based on a residential customer on the Ausgrid network who consumes 3,900kWh yearly on a single rate tariff. Your actual bill may vary depending on your consumption.
The annual estimated electricity prices are based on a residential customer on the Citipower network who consumes 4000kWh yearly on a single rate tariff. Your actual bill may vary depending on your consumption.
The annual estimated electricity prices are based on a residential customer on the Energex network who consumes 4,600kWh yearly on a single rate tariff. Your actual bill may vary depending on your consumption.
The annual estimated electricity prices are based on a residential customer on the SA Power Network who consumes 4,000kWh yearly on a single rate tariff. Your actual bill may vary depending on your consumption.
The annual estimated gas prices are based on a residential customer on the ATCO network who consumes 4015MJ yearly on a single rate tariff. Your actual bill may vary depending on your consumption.
Currently, AGL is the only provider which has a specific energy plan for seniors, the Seniors Saver plan. This plan is available for seniors living in NSW, VIC, QLD and SA.
The benefits of this plan include:
Up to $200 in sign-up credits
No lock-in contract
No exit fees
No additional fee for choosing paper bills or making payments at Australia Post
What should seniors look for in an energy plan?
Pricing Don't settle for the first option as there are plenty of providers offering cheaper plans and discounts, which is why it is important to compare the options available to you.
Discounts Look for plans which have a higher percentage off the reference price or Victorian default offer, and good sign-up deals. Additionally, certain plans have very low rates thanks to a benefit period discount. These benefit periods normally last for 12 months so you should switch plans after the benefit period is over.
No extra costs Some providers charge extra fees including connection and disconnection fees, exit fees and paper bill fees. While looking for a plan, try and avoid these hidden costs.
Customer care Look for providers that offer 24-hour customer service and are easy to contact.
Am I eligible for a seniors energy rebate?
Every state offers a discounted price to pension concession card holders or seniors card holders, allowing access to a seniors energy rebate. The amount and eligibility requirements vary so it is important to check your state government's website and the table below to see which discount is available for you.
In NSW, VIC, QLD, SA, WA and ACT you will need the following to receive the seniors concession:
A valid Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) or Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
Be a legal resident of the state you're in
Have your name as the primary account holder on your power bill
Your contact details and bank account details
In NT and TAS you will need the following to receive the seniors concession:
A valid Department of Veterans Affairs Pension Concession Card (DVA PCC)
Be a legal resident of the state you're in
Have your name as the primary account holder on your power bill
Your contact details and bank account details
Additional ways to save on your energy bill
The best way to save on your energy bill is to reduce your power usage. Here are a few ways you can achieve this:
Heating and insulation
Heaters in winter should be set between 18 and 20 degrees, while air conditioners in summer should be set between 25 and 27 degrees. Each extra degree can increase energy use by 10%.
Seal gaps in doors and windows. Draught-stoppers under doors can prevent cool air from entering your home.
Don't try to heat the whole house. Close off rooms you aren't using and open windows in summer to let hot air out and take advantage of the breeze.
Hot water
Hot showers are more expensive, since you have to pay for both the heat and the water. Try to find alternative methods to warm up, as they are likely to cost you less.
Water-efficient showerheads reduce hot water usage and can drive your bill down significantly.
Appliances
Appliances come with an energy efficiency rating. Higher efficiency models consume less power, making them more cost-effective in the long run than cheaper ones.
Turn appliances off at the wall instead of leaving them on standby.
Run your dishwasher and washing machine at lower temperatures, and pick water-efficient models. If you have solar panels, run your dishwasher and washing machine during the day when the sun is out.
Installing solar panels could save you hundreds of dollars every year. However, making the decision to invest in solar can be a long process with a buyback period of up to 6 years. Therefore, it is important to do some research before investing in solar to ensure that it is the right choice for you.
Compare energy deals and make the switch to a cheaper plan
If you've been with the same energy company for years it's likely that there is a better alternative plan out there for you, so it's important to check what plans are available. Make sure to use the concessions and rebates you are entitled to and check your energy bill to ensure that all the rebates are being applied to your bill. If you are still unsure of what the best energy plan is for you, make sure to compare energy plans to ensure you find the right plan for you.
Additional energy resources and assistance for seniors
Solar power plans:
Got rooftop solar? Compare your options and save even more
Average energy bill:
Find out how your energy bill compares to the rest of Australia
Frequently asked questions
EnergyAustralia does not have a specific seniors plan/discount. But if EnergyAustralia is your provider, you can apply for the state government's seniors energy rebate available in your state. If EnergyAustralia is your provider, head to the EnergyAustralia website and have your rebate applied through making a "My Account" and updating your details.
Origin Energy does not have a specific seniors plan/discount. But if Origin Energy is your provider, you can apply for the state government's seniors energy rebate available in your state. If Origin is your provider, apply for the seniors energy rebate via your state government's website.
The NSW seniors energy rebate is available for seniors who have:
A valid Commonwealth Seniors Health Card (CSHC) or Pensioner Concession Card (PCC)
Are a legal resident of NSW
Have their name as the primary account holder on their power bill
Contact details and bank account details available
The Cost of Living Centrelink payment is a $250 one-off payment for any Centrelink or Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) customer. To be eligible for this payment you must have been living in Australia on 29 March and have an eligible concession card. Read more about this payment on the Services Australia government website.
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To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Moira Daniels as part of our fact-checking process.
Luana Matrone is a graduate at Finder aiming to help consumers make more informed financial decisions. She has a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Marketing and a Bachelor of Psychology from Macquarie University. Outside of work Luana enjoys sport, shopping and can make a mean choc top. See full bio
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