Millions of Australian households will soon face steeper electricity and gas bills as AGL and Origin Energy confirm new prices effective from July 1.
AGL customers in New South Wales (NSW) will see the highest electricity price jump, with rates rising 13.5 percent—adding roughly $267 a year for the average household.
In South Australia, prices will climb 7.8 percent, followed by 7.5 percent in Queensland and 6.8 percent in Victoria, which equates to an additional $110 annually for Victorian users.
Origin will raise electricity prices by an average of 9.1 percent in NSW, 5.5 percent in South Australia, and between 3 and 4 percent in Queensland. Electricity charges for Victoria are yet to be finalised.
The updated rates have been published on its website.
Gas users in Victoria will also be hit hard, with costs projected to rise by $85—the steepest gas increase of any state. The figures reflect average yearly changes for residential customers on variable-rate market contracts, though individual bill impacts will vary.
AGL, which services around 4.5 million energy and telecommunications customers, said the increases were necessary but acknowledged the financial stress many Australians are under.
It said the changes reflect ongoing cost challenges across wholesale markets and infrastructure.
“We carefully consider the impact on our customers and remain committed to supporting those experiencing financial difficulty,” a spokesperson told The Epoch Times.
Government Rebates to Ease Burden
To help manage the financial hit, the federal government will extend its taxpayer-backed Energy Bill Relief Fund into the 2025–26 financial year.All households will automatically receive a $150 discount on their electricity bills from July 1, while concession card holders in Victoria will get an extra $100 rebate.
This follows last year’s initiative, which offered up to $300 in relief for households and $325 for small businesses.
Rebates will be applied quarterly by providers, with no action required from customers.
ACT residents, including those in embedded networks, are also eligible for up to $150 in support through to the end of 2025.
The federal opposition criticised the Albanese government’s handling of energy prices, arguing its market interventions have failed.
“They imposed price caps that haven’t worked. They’ve completely failed, and we continue to see price hikes,” Shadow Defence Minister Angus Taylor told Sky News Australia.
Both companies and consumer advocates are advising Australians to explore the energy market, compare offers, and consider switching providers if better deals are available.
