Vinnies warn of power bill shock to hit Queenslanders

The average Queensland family is spending nearly 50% more on electricity than they were five years ago, according to a new state Tariff Tracker Report released by the St Vincent de Paul Society.

The Report found the average annual electricity bill for a Queensland household using 8,000kWh a year has increased from $2,030 in 2020 to just under $3,000 today.

This is based on a market rate – households on a default plan, or ‘standing offer’, may be spending up to $800 or more annually than their counterparts on a market plan.

Queensland families are also set for ‘bill shock’ in 2026 after the $75 per quarter state Energy Bill Relief rebate extension ends at the end of 2025.

The Society’s National Director of Energy, Policy and Research Gavin Dufty said some Queenslanders on the default standing offer could save hundreds by shopping around.

“A household switching from an Origin or AGL standing offer to the best electricity market offer can save more than $815 a year,” he said.

“Even market offers can vary wildly – the difference between the best and worst market offers in 2025 is $790.”

State electricity bills had increased by about $135 on average, or about 4%, since July 2024.

Mr Dufty said the Report found Sumo Power was offering the best market offer for single-rate customers.

St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland Acting CEO Joe Duskovic said the rising costs of electricity added further financial stress for Queensland families already struggling with rising housing costs.

“We’ve heard from families who are living in the dark and going to bed early because they can’t afford their bills,” he said.

“It’s not uncommon for us to hear from Queenslanders who are so financially stressed they ignore their electricity bills up until their power is switched off.

“By then, bills can have tallied up to thousands of dollars. If you aren’t aware of your hardship plan options, it can seem completely insurmountable.”

Mr Duskovic encouraged Queensland families to know their options and to be proactive in saving on their bills.

“Every provider has hardship plans available, and it’s worth talking with your provider to make sure you’re getting the best rate possible,” he said.

“The cost of everything has increased significantly in the last few years, and it’s getting harder and harder for vulnerable families to keep up.”

Mr Duskovic said there was also an opportunity for a review and modernisation of energy concessions to ensure subsidies and support reached Queensland households who need it most.

You can read the Queensland Tariff Tracker Report at vinnies.org.au/national-council/advocacy/energy/energy-qld

In the last financial year, St Vincent de Paul Society Queensland supported more than 238,000 Queenslanders dealing with financial stress, poverty and homelessness.

If you’re struggling, you can reach the Society by calling 1800 846 643 during business hours.