How to Compare Energy Plans in Victoria: A Step‑by‑Step Guide

As a Victorian resident, comparing energy plans annually can save you hundreds of dollars. With rising default offers and hidden fees, here’s your complete guide to finding the best electricity and gas deals in Victoria.

1. Know Your Energy Usage & Costs

Begin by gathering recent electricity and gas bills. For electricity, note your National Metering Identifier (NMI)—this number allows comparison tools to access smart meter data for accurate usage estimates. Analyse whether you’re on flat-rate or time-of-use billing.

2. Use Government Comparison Tools

Two major tools can help:

• Victorian Energy Compare: A free state-run tool that compares thousands of plans. It suggests potential savings (average $240/year) and takes only 10 minutes (energy.vic.gov.au).
• Energy Made Easy: The federal tool covers dual-fuel households in multiple states, including VIC.

3. Understand Your Bill Components

Energy bills typically include a daily supply charge and a usage charge (cents per kWh or MJ). Use energy fact sheets required by retailers to compare similar data sets (energy.gov.au, esc.vic.gov.au).

4. Check for Rebates & Incentives

Victorian and federal schemes significantly reduce costs:

• $150 energy relief credit applied quarterly across electricity bills
• 17.5% state concession
• Power Saving Bonus – a one-off $100 payment to provide direct energy bill support to eligible Victorian households.
• VEU upgrades for solar, efficient heating, lighting

5. Compare Retailers, Plans & Tariffs

Compare major providers like AGL, EnergyAustralia, Origin, plus niche retailers using platforms such as finder.com.au. Consider contract terms, exit fees, green energy add-ons, and feed-in tariffs, especially following the flat minimum FiT drop to 0.04 c/kWh from July 1, 2025 (esc.vic.gov.au).

6. Be Aware of the Loyalty Penalty & Default Offer

Over 80% of households pay more on outdated plans—loyalty penalty may cost ~$238 annually (theaustralian.com.au). The Victorian Default Offer will rise by about $12/year starting July 1, 2025 (news.com.au).

7. Switch Smart & Stay Updated

Check for “best offer” notices on your bill every 3–4 months (energy.vic.gov.au). You can switch:

• Directly on Victorian Energy Compare
• Through retailer websites
• Via customer service calls

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How much can I save?

Switching from the default offer could save ~$240-725/year, depending on usage and plan (energy.vic.gov.au, news.com.au).

What is the Power Saving Bonus?

A one-off $100 payment to provide direct energy bill support to eligible Victorian households. Victorians with an eligible concession card can now apply through the Victorian Energy Compare website or a participating community organisation.

When do feed-in tariffs change?

Minimum FiTs drop from 3.3 c/kWh to 0.04 c/kWh from 1 July 2025; flexible tariffs will also shift.

Which tool should I use?

Use Victorian Energy Compare for electricity and gas in VIC. Use Energy Made Easy if you want national dual-fuel offers (energymadeeasy.gov.au).

Bottom Line: Start Saving Today

Don’t wait. Use the Victorian Energy Compare tool—enter your details, compare tailored plans, grab your $100 bonus, and switch in minutes. Regular checks mean better deals, energy savings, and peace of mind.