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.

View live wholesale prices →

Stats updated: 2026-09-20

-3.4% to -5.0%
NSW DMO Residential Drop
Annual saving $66-$137
-7.2%
SE QLD DMO Residential Drop
Annual saving $155
-5.0%
VIC VDO Residential Drop
Annual saving $84
+1.4%
SA DMO Residential Increase
Annual increase $33

Are electricity prices going down in Australia in 2026?

For most Australian households and small businesses on standing offers, electricity prices have indeed decreased from 1 July 2026. The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) announced Default Market Offer (DMO) reductions for residential flat-rate customers of 3.4% to 5.0% in New South Wales (saving $66 to $137 annually) and 7.2% in South East Queensland (saving $155 annually). Similarly, Victorian households on the Victorian Default Offer (VDO) are seeing an average 5% reduction, equating to an annual saving of approximately $84. However, South Australian residential flat-rate DMO customers experienced a modest increase of 1.4%, or about $33 annually.

What energy rebates and bill relief are available in Australia in 2026?

The universal federal Energy Bill Relief Fund, which provided up to $300 for households in 2024-25 and a further $150 in the first half of 2025-26, concluded on 31 December 2025, with no new universal federal rebate confirmed for 2026. However, targeted state and territory concessions remain active for eligible cardholders. For example, New South Wales offers a Low Income Household Rebate (up to $285/year), a Family Energy Rebate (up to $180/year), and a Seniors Energy Rebate ($200/year). Queensland provides an Electricity Rebate of $386.34 per year, and the ACT offers an Electricity, Gas and Water Rebate of $800 annually for eligible concession card holders in 2026-27.

How can I reduce my electricity bill in Australia in 2026?

To reduce your electricity bill in 2026, comparing and switching to a more competitive market offer remains a key strategy, as these are typically cheaper than standing offers. Additionally, the new Solar Sharer Offer, introduced from 1 July 2026 for smart meter customers, provides three hours of free electricity during the middle of the day, incentivising the use of solar generation. State government programs also offer support, such as the NSW Home Energy Saver Program, which provides zero-interest loans up to $15,000 for energy-saving upgrades like solar, batteries, and heat pumps. Investing in energy efficiency upgrades and exploring solar and battery solutions, potentially with federal battery rebates, can also significantly lower long-term costs.

Latest Prices News

149 articles