Paying too much for gas? Here’s how to conduct a gas comparison
There is no standard gas rate in Australia. That means the rate you pay for your household gas depends on where you live and the deal you’re on.
Regularly comparing gas providers can help you find the cheapest gas rate that’s currently available to you.
ut it’s not just about the gas rate. Consider and compare all the factors – like discounts, incentives, and cash-back credits – that impact how much you pay for gas.
The experts at Compare Club can help you conduct a gas supplier comparison to make sure you’re not overpaying for your household gas.
Gas comparison: What you can compare
Aussie households spend an average of $231 per quarter on gas1. That’s about $77 per month, or around $924 per year. However, the cost of gas varies widely depending on where you live and the retail plan you’re on. Fortunately, most Australians are free to compare gas, energy and solar providers to find the plan that’s the best fit for your budget.
Gas comparison: Why compare?
The household gas market in Australia is highly competitive. That means a number of gas retailers offer various gas plans, discounts, and incentives to attract customers. Conducting a regular gas price comparison can help you make sure you’re not overpaying for your household gas. It’s also a great way to take advantage of discounts some gas providers offer if you switch to them.
Gas comparison: Why compare with us?
The experts at Compare Club make it fast, easy, and simple to conduct a gas bill comparison. We compare Australia’s major gas and energy providers – and a bunch of smaller ones – to help you find the cheapest gas rates available to you. And if you decide to switch to a new gas or energy provider, we’ll look after the paperwork with no hidden fees or extra cost to you.
Gas comparison: Available rebates
Gas suppliers offer a huge range of special rebates to attract new customers. For example, some offer cash-back deals when you connect. Others might offer a rebate when you install a new natural gas hot water system or ducted gas heating. Depending on where you live, your state government may also offer gas rebates for concession card holders. For example, the NSW Gas Rebate is $110 per eligible household, per financial year2. Get in touch with the experts at Compare Club to find out if you’re eligible for any gas discounts or rebates.
Gas Comparison: Key terms
Supply charge (also known as daily charge): A fixed daily fee on a gas bill for maintaining the connection to the gas network. This covers the cost of infrastructure and administration, regardless of how much gas is used.
Usage charge (also known as consumption charge): The cost based on the amount of gas consumed, typically measured in megajoules (MJ) or cubic metres (m³). This charge varies with the volume of gas used.
Gas retailer: The company that sells gas to consumers, manages billing, and provides customer service.
Gas distributor: The company responsible for transporting gas through pipelines from the source to households. They may also handle infrastructure maintenance.
Average daily usage: A summary of average gas consumption per day during the billing period. This helps consumers understand their usage patterns.
Gas comparison: Additional resources
If you smell gas in your home, call the national gas emergency hotline on 1800 GAS LEAK (1800 427 532). Want to reduce your energy usage? Find and compare energy-efficient appliances here. Cheaper energy, gas, or solar could be just a quick click away.
Gas Comparison: Frequently asked questions
What is a gas tariff, and how does it work?
A gas tariff is the pricing structure used for gas consumption. It includes rates for each unit of gas used, and may vary by time of day or usage level. Common types include flat rates, block tariffs (different rates for different usage blocks), and seasonal tariffs.
What is the difference between a standing offer and a market offer?
A standing offer is a default gas contract with standard terms and regulated rates. It is usually more expensive and less flexible. A market offer, on the other hand, is a contract with competitive rates and various terms, often including discounts or additional benefits. Market offers are generally more cost-effective than standing offers.
What is the supply charge on my gas bill?
The supply charge is a fixed daily fee for maintaining the connection to the gas network and covering infrastructure costs. This charge is applied regardless of gas usage and can vary between providers.
Why do gas prices vary between states and regions?
Differences in supply infrastructure, regulatory environments, and local market conditions can affect gas prices. Transportation costs and availability of local gas sources also play a role.
Disclaimer
This guide is opinion only and should not be taken as medical or financial advice. Check with a financial professional before making any decisions.
Sources
1Average quarterly consumer electricity and gas bill in Australia from 2019 to 2023, Statista, https://www.statista.com/statistics/1228005/australia-average-quarterly-consumer-electricity-and-gas-bill/
2Apply for the NSW Gas Rebate (retail customers), Service NSW, https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/transaction/apply-for-the-gas-rebate-retail-customers#:~:text=The%20NSW%20Gas%20Rebate%20is,supply%20and%20bottled%20gas%20households
