Prices

Australian Electricity Prices: What's Happening in 2026

Prices are finally falling for some Australians after years of increases — but not everyone will benefit. Here's the full picture by state.

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Stats updated: 2026-09-06

AUD $1,424/year
National Average Annual Bill
7-state average (2026)
5% (AUD $84/year)
VIC Household Bill Reduction
VDO FY2026-27 average
-3.4% to -5.0%
NSW Residential DMO Change
FY2026-27 flat rate
+1.4% (AUD $33/year)
SA Residential DMO Change
FY2026-27 flat rate

Are electricity prices going up or down in my state for 2026-27?

For the 2026-27 financial year, electricity prices on the Default Market Offer (DMO) have seen varied changes across the National Electricity Market. Households in New South Wales can expect a decrease of between 3.4% and 5.0% on flat rate standing offers, while South East Queensland residential customers will see a 7.2% reduction. Conversely, South Australian households on flat rate standing offers will experience a modest increase of 1.4%, equating to approximately AUD $33 per year. In Victoria, the Essential Services Commission's final determination for the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) 2026-27 has resulted in an average 5% reduction for households, cutting around AUD $84 off annual bills, and a 6% reduction for small businesses.

What government rebates and concessions are available to reduce my energy bill in 2026?

Australian households can access various state-specific rebates and concessions for the 2026-27 financial year. In Queensland, eligible pensioners, veterans, and seniors can receive an Electricity Rebate of AUD $399.47 per year. Victorian concession card holders are entitled to an ongoing annual electricity rebate of approximately AUD $174. The ACT offers a substantial Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate of AUD $800 annually for eligible residents. In NSW, self-funded retirees holding a Commonwealth Seniors Health Card can claim a Seniors Energy Rebate of AUD $200 per year. South Australian concession holders can receive an energy concession of up to AUD $291.27 per year and may access the SA Concessions Energy Discount Offer with Origin Energy, providing 20% off electricity usage and supply charges.

How can I actively reduce my electricity bill right now?

Beyond government rebates, Australians can significantly reduce their electricity bills by comparing market offers and investing in energy-efficient upgrades. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and Essential Services Commission (ESC) encourage consumers to compare plans, as many households on standing offers could be overpaying. From 1 July 2026, a new Solar Sharer Offer is available in DMO regions, providing 3 hours of free power in the middle of the day for smart meter households, encouraging energy use during peak solar generation. Additionally, federal and state programs support solar and battery installations; for example, the federal Cheaper Home Batteries Program offers roughly 30% off the installed cost (around AUD $252 per usable kWh from May 2026), and Victoria's Solar Homes program provides rebates up to AUD $1,400 for solar panels.

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