Fewer Surprises, Greater Certainty: New Electricity Reforms Explained

Between frequent changes, expiring discounts and unclear fee structures, predicting electricity costs has often felt like guesswork. From 1 July 2026, new electricity protections introduced through ACT Government reforms and national energy regulation will bring clearer pricing and stronger safeguards.

Greater Pricing Certainty

One of the most significant outcomes of these reforms is the introduction of limits on how often electricity prices can increase. From 1 July 2026, retailers will generally only be able to increase prices once every 12 months, providing greater certainty for households and businesses.

Customers on fixed-term plans will also benefit from stronger protections, with discounts and credits also required to remain in place for the duration of the contract.

Protection When Discounts End

Expiring discounts have traditionally been a trigger for bill shock, often arriving without warning. Under the new protections, customers moving from a discounted or promotional offer cannot be placed onto a price higher than the retailer’s applicable standing offer.

This creates a clear pricing benchmark and helps ensure any change in plan conditions remains transparent and predictable.

More Considered Fee Structures

The reforms also place tighter controls on fees and charges. Customers participating in a hardship program will be protected from most fees, supporting more equitable access to essential energy services.

Retailers must also provide fee-free payment options and ensure any fees charged reasonably reflect the costs incurred.

While not a complete overhaul of the energy market, these changes establish clearer guardrails around pricing, fees and customer protections. The overall result is a more predictable system, with fewer surprises and greater confidence in what you are paying.

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