HOW TO SLASH YOUR WINTER POWER BILL IN 10 MINUTES

As heaters switch on across the country, winter power bills are creeping up, and for many Australian households, that means another financial hit in a cost-of-living crisis that just won’t quit.

With benchmark tariffs set to rise between 5.1% and 8.9% in some regions, energy costs are soaring right as we head into peak usage season.

Rising wholesale prices, grid delays, and wild weather have created the perfect storm—and the bill is now landing in your inbox.

Here, iSelect’s Sophie Ryan shares simple tips to save money fast.

WHY LOYALTY COULD BE COSTING YOU

Too many Aussies are unknowingly paying a “loyalty tax”—and it’s draining their wallets.

“Many retailers move customers to a default standing offer once their initial plan expires, which can be much more expensive than deals offered to new customers,” she says.

In fact, more than 80% of households in the National Electricity Market could save simply by switching providers or contacting their current one. The message? Don’t assume loyalty pays. It often doesn’t.

TWEAK YOUR TIMING TO CUT COSTS

You're probably paying peak rates if you use energy when everyone else is, especially between 4 pm and 9 pm.

Running your dishwasher, dryer, or washing machine outside those hours can bring instant savings. Even setting your heater to a timer can help keep costs down without sacrificing comfort.

WHERE YOU LIVE MATTERS

Power prices vary wildly by location, so your postcode might be a bigger factor than you realise.

While Queensland leads the way with solar feed-in tariffs, not everyone takes advantage.

In Tasmania, hydro power means prices are often lower, but it depends on your plan.

Rebates are also available for many households, especially low-income earners, pensioners and those with medical needs — but thousands miss out because they’re unaware of what’s on offer.

A 10-MINUTE BILL FIX

“Cutting your power bill doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming,” says Ryan.

In fact, all it takes is 10 minutes and your latest power bill. By comparing offers online, you could save hundreds.

Most providers make switching easy — no long forms, no exit fees, no stress. “The real cost isn’t the price on your bill, it’s the cost of doing nothing,” Ryan adds.