What are my options if I no longer want to use gas? 

If you no longer want to use gas at your property, there are generally three options: close your gas account, request a gas disconnection, or request a gas abolishment. 

Each option has a different outcome. Closing your gas account does not necessarily disconnect or remove the gas connection at the property. 

What happens if I only close my gas account? 

Closing your gas account ends your gas billing arrangement with us. It does not physically disconnect or remove the gas connection. 

This means gas infrastructure may still remain at the property, and gas may still be present within the distribution pipeline or service line at the premises. 

If you continue to occupy the property after closing your gas account and do not arrange a gas disconnection or abolishment, the property may be treated as having an occupier using or able to access gas supply. This means you may receive occupier letters or notices about the gas supply at the property. Service-to-property or supply charges may also continue to apply while the gas connection remains in place, even if you are not using gas. 

A gas abolishment permanently removes the gas connection and stops supply charges from being applied. 

What is a gas disconnection? 

A gas disconnection usually stops gas from flowing to the property without removing the gas connection completely. 

For example, the gas distributor may disconnect or secure the meter so gas cannot be used. A disconnection may be suitable where gas is not required for a period of time, such as during renovations or while a property is vacant. 

A disconnection can usually be reversed later through a reconnection service. Reconnection charges may apply. 

What is a gas abolishment? 

A gas abolishment is the permanent removal of the gas connection, so gas can no longer be supplied to the property without a new connection being arranged. 

This may involve removing the gas meter and cutting and capping the gas service line. If you want gas again in the future, you may need to apply for a new gas connection. We do not offer new gas connections, so you may need to contact another retailer that provides this service. Charges and regulatory requirements may apply. 

What is the difference between disconnection and abolishment? 

A disconnection generally stops gas from being used but leaves the gas connection in place. It can usually be reversed. 

An abolishment removes the gas connection so gas cannot flow to the property unless a new connection is established. 

If I close my gas account but do nothing else, will gas still be at the property? 

Possibly. If you close your gas account but do not arrange a disconnection or abolishment, gas infrastructure may remain at the property and gas may still be present in the distribution pipeline or service line. 

If you are permanently moving away from gas, review the available options with your gas distributor before deciding what to do. 

Who provides gas disconnection and abolishment services? 

Gas disconnection and abolishment services are arranged with the gas distributor for your area. The distributor is responsible for confirming the services available, the process, timeframes, charges and any supporting information required. 

We can provide general information and help refer you to the relevant distributor. 

Will there be charges? 

Charges may apply for gas disconnection, reconnection or abolishment services. Charges are set by the gas distributor and may vary depending on the property, distributor and type of service requested. You can also check our website for Additional Fees & Charges | 1st Energy 

The relevant distributor can provide more information about current charges and payment requirements. 

How long does it take? 

Timeframes vary depending on the distributor, the type of service requested, access to the property, payment requirements and whether additional information is needed. 

The distributor can confirm the expected timeframe for your request. 

Do I need the property owner’s consent? 

You may need to provide evidence that you are the property owner or that you are authorised to request the disconnection or abolishment. The distributor may ask for supporting documents before processing the request. 

What if I am moving house? 

If you are moving out, you can close your gas account with us. Closing your account does not remove the gas connection from the property. 

If you also want the gas supply disconnected or abolished, you should contact us or the relevant distributor to understand the available options. 

What if I am switching my home from gas to electricity? 

If you are permanently moving away from gas, you may wish to consider whether a disconnection or abolishment is more suitable for your circumstances. 

You should review the distributor’s information before making a decision, as abolishment is generally permanent and a new connection may be required if gas is needed again in the future. 

Gas distributor contact details 

Your gas distributor depends on your property address. If you are unsure, check your gas bill or contact us and we can help direct you to the right distributor. 

Safety and complaints 

What should I do if I smell gas? 

If you smell gas or there is an immediate safety issue, contact your gas distributor’s emergency number straight away. 

You can also visit  Gas safety – Victoria – 1st Energy page for more information. 

For life-threatening emergencies, call 000. 

What if I have a complaint about a gas disconnection or abolishment service? 

If your complaint relates to a gas disconnection or abolishment service, we may refer you to the relevant gas distributor because the distributor is responsible for providing those services. 

If needed, we may provide the details of your enquiry or complaint to the distributor so they can respond.