Queenslanders concerned with the cost of electricity

Published on 27 July 2026

The ever-present cost-of-living pressures continue to weigh on Queenslanders with electricity bills a particular cost of concern for many.

The 2026 Queensland Household Energy Survey highlights the pressure many households continue to face with their bills. Nearly six in ten (59%) of respondents were highly concerned about their ongoing ability to pay their electricity bills, while more than three-quarters (76%) reported actively trying to reduce their electricity use.

EWOQ closed a total of 2,763 cases in the April to June 2026 quarter, an increase of 27% compared to the same time last year. Compared to the previous quarter, the biggest increase to complaint types we saw were in credit issues (up by 32%). Credit complaints include issues such as payment difficulties, collection of debt and disconnections due to debt. 

‘People in regional Queensland can expect to see some electricity bill relief with the new regulated prices for 2026–27 from the Queensland Competition Authority. Households in this region can expect to pay about 6.9% less,’ says Jane Pires the Energy and Water Ombudsman for Queensland.

However, the situation is more complex in South East Queensland.

‘Many customers may have heard that the Default Market Offer has decreased and expected their electricity bills to go down as well. But that’s not always the case,’ says Ms Pires.

‘The Default Market Offer is a benchmark price set by the Australian Energy Regulator. Most South East Queensland households are on market contracts, where retailers can set their own prices. This means some customers may still see price increases, even when the benchmark price falls.’

‘That’s why it’s important to compare plans regularly. A better offer may be available from your current provider or another retailer.’

The Energy Made Easy website is a free and independent website that can be used to compare plans and prices.

Customers who are finding it hard to pay for bills, should talk to their provider. They can help by providing options such as payment plans and hardship programs.

Ms Pires also stresses that EWOQ is here for those customers who have a problem with their provider.

‘If you’ve contacted your provider about your financial hardship and haven’t received the support you need, you can contact us. We can work with you and your provider to negotiate an affordable payment plan and other assistance options.’

Find out more about assistance with payments and defaults or changing energy providers.

Make a complaint online or call 1800 662 837.