New energy obligations: what embedded network operators should do now

Published on 26 February 2026

Many caravan park owners and managers of apartment blocks and retirement villages supply electricity to their residents and operate as exempt sellers. Recent changes to exemption rules mean some new obligations are already in place, with further requirements starting from 1 July 2026.

These changes, introduced by the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), strengthen protections for people living in embedded networks. While the reforms aim to improve transparency and fairness for customers, they also mean embedded network operators should take steps now to prepare.

What's changing?

The updated exemption framework introduces several new requirements that may apply to exempt sellers, depending on how energy is supplied and the number of customers involved. Key changes include:

• Family violence protections – Exempt sellers must have a family violence policy in place and be able to offer support to affected customers.
• Energy ombudsman details on bills – From 1 July, most exempt sellers will need to include details for the relevant energy ombudsman on electricity bills.
• Greater price transparency – Some exempt sellers must publish electricity tariffs and show how they compare to the local retailer’s standing offer.
• Updated exemption classes – Certain exemption categories have closed or expanded, which may affect how some caravan parks are classified.

What should embedded network operators do now?

With the July deadline approaching, it’s a good time to review your current arrangements and plan ahead. Practical steps include:

1. Confirm your status
   Check which exemption class applies to your embedded network. Even smaller embedded networks may be affected by these changes.
2. Review billing and customer information
   Understand what information must appear on bills from 1 July, including ombudsman contact details.
3. Plan for family violence obligations
   If you don’t already have a family violence policy, begin preparing one now. Family violence guidance and templates are available from the AER website.
4. Review pricing visibility
   If tariff information must be published, consider how this will be shared with residents. It could be online or in a location accessible within the embedded network.
5. Seek guidance early
   Leaving changes until the last minute can create unnecessary pressure. Early preparation reduces compliance risk and helps avoid disputes later on.

Support is available

The AER has published guidance for exempt sellers on the new obligations, including practical templates to support compliance.

Retail and network exemption holders that sell or supply energy to residential customers in Queensland should join the Energy and Water Ombudsman Queensland (EWOQ). There is no cost to join this scheme. EWOQ provides free, independent dispute resolution for energy customers, including those living in embedded networks.

By taking steps now, embedded network operators can prepare for the new requirements and support a smoother transition for both operators and residents ahead of the 1 July changes.