Switching gas suppliers in Australia

Switching utility providers can feel like a balancing act. Naturally, you’ll want the transition to be smooth, ensuring that your gas supply isn’t interrupted during the handover between companies.

Keep reading to learn what actions you should take to change suppliers and how to make the process as hassle-free as possible.

How to switch gas suppliers

Switching gas suppliers in Australia is usually a simple and straightforward process. Here’s an expanded step-by-step guide to help you navigate the transition smoothly:

Contact Compare Energy

The first - and best - way to switch gas suppliers is to first connect with Compare Energy. Our team can talk you through the options in your state, the best gas suppliers and plans on offer.

We can also walk you through the process of switching suppliers and ensure that you get the best possible deal for your budget. You can reach our team on 1300 790 106.

Choose your new gas supplier

Begin by researching and choosing a new gas supplier that best suits your needs, the plans they have on offer and which suppliers are available in your state.

Consider factors such as rates, customer service, and contract terms before you make any decisions. Once you choose, you can ring our team, and we can get you switched over in no time.

Initiate the switch

Your new gas provider will initiate the switching process by submitting a request to the network distributor on your behalf. The network distributor is responsible for the ownership, operation, and maintenance of the gas pipelines that deliver gas to your property. This request will also be forwarded to your current gas provider, informing them of your intention to switch.

Take a final meter reading

A final meter reading will be scheduled to determine your last bill with your current provider. Depending on your location and the network distributor's practices, this could be done manually or automatically if you have a smart meter. After this reading, the new gas supplier will officially take over your property's account.

Receive your final bill

After the final meter reading, you will receive a final bill from your old gas supplier. This bill will cover all charges up to the point of the switch. Make sure to review the bill carefully to ensure all charges are accurate before making the final payment.

Provide necessary details to your new supplier

To complete the switch, your new gas supplier will require specific details, including your usage requirements, supply address, banking details, and your delivery point identifier (DPI), which is your meter number. You can find your meter number on the top of your gas bill or directly on your gas meter.

Monitor the transition

Throughout the transition, it's essential to monitor communications from both your old and new gas suppliers. You should be sure that your new provider has all the information they need and that the switch is proceeding according to the timeline provided.

By following these steps, you can ensure that the process of switching gas suppliers in Australia is as smooth and hassle-free as possible, with minimal disruption to your service.

Things to look out for when changing gas suppliers

When choosing a new gas supplier, it's essential to consider the features that matter most to you. Speaking to the team at Compare Energy, we can talk you through which features each supplier can offer you, and then you can decide which provider matches your needs.

Here's an easy-to-read breakdown with additional information to help guide your decision:

Supply charges

Supply charges reflect the cost of delivering gas to your home, whether through natural gas lines or by delivering LPG cylinders. These charges are typically the fixed component of your gas bill, meaning you'll pay this amount regardless of how much gas you use. It's crucial to understand this cost as it directly impacts your overall bill and your budget.

Usage charges

Usage charges depend on the amount of gas you consume. Some suppliers offer a flat rate for all usage, while others use 'block rates,' where the price changes based on your consumption level.

For example, the first block of gas usage might be cheaper, with higher rates applying as your usage increases. Understanding how your usage is billed can help you anticipate costs and manage your energy budget effectively.

Hidden fees

Be aware of potential hidden fees that might be associated with gas plans - they can and do come up. These could include connection fees, credit card surcharges, late payment penalties, or charges for receiving paper bills.

Always read the fine print and ask us to clarify any additional costs before you commit to a plan. Hidden fees can significantly impact your overall costs, so it's important to factor them into your decision.

Customer satisfaction

Customer service is an often-overlooked aspect of choosing a gas supplier. Consider the level of service you expect, such as extended call centre hours, prompt issue resolution, or next-day LPG delivery.

Reviews and ratings from current customers can provide valuable insights into the reliability and quality of a supplier's service. Good customer service can enhance your overall experience and offer peace of mind.

Location

Your location can significantly affect the price you pay for gas. Factors like your postcode, proximity to supply lines, and whether you use natural gas or LPG will influence costs.

For those in regional areas or with lower gas usage, the difference in supply and running costs can be substantial. It's worth comparing prices and supply options available in your area to find the most cost-effective solution.

Incentives

Many gas providers offer incentives to attract new customers, such as discounts, sign-up bonuses, or vouchers. Some suppliers may also offer larger discounts if you bundle your gas and electricity services together.

While these incentives can be appealing, ensure they align with your long-term needs and that you're not sacrificing essential features or service quality for a short-term benefit.

Is it easy to change gas suppliers?

In Australia, most households should be able to switch natural gas suppliers. However, the availability of natural gas depends on where you live and whether your area is connected to the gas mains—the underground network of pipes that delivers gas to homes.

If you’re in a regional area, your options to switch suppliers may be limited or unavailable.

For LPG, switching suppliers is generally possible as long as there are companies operating in your area. Like with natural gas, those living in more remote parts of the country might find their choices are limited.

Which retailers in Australia offer natural gas?

In Australia, several retailers offer natural gas services. Some of the major providers include:

AGL

One of Australia's largest energy companies, AGL offers natural gas plans across several states, including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia.

Origin Energy

Origin is another major energy retailer providing natural gas services in many parts of Australia. They offer a range of plans and are known for their flexible billing and payment options.

EnergyAustralia

EnergyAustralia supplies natural gas to customers in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, and Queensland. They offer various plans and often provide discounts for bundling gas with electricity.

Alinta Energy

Alinta Energy is a popular choice for natural gas, offering competitive rates and serving customers in states such as Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.

Red Energy

Red Energy, owned by Snowy Hydro, provides natural gas services in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia, with a focus on customer service and Australian-owned energy.

Simply Energy

Simply Energy offers natural gas plans in several states, including Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and Queensland, often with discounts for dual fuel (gas and electricity) customers.

Lumo Energy

Lumo Energy provides natural gas services in Victoria and South Australia. They offer various plans and are known for their customer rewards programs.

Dodo

Dodo, known for its broadband services, also provides natural gas in Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia. They offer bundled services, including internet and energy plans.

Tango Energy

Tango Energy offers natural gas services primarily in Victoria. They focus on simple, straightforward plans with competitive pricing.

Powershop

Powershop, an environmentally focused retailer, offers natural gas in Victoria and New South Wales. They emphasise green energy options and transparent pricing.

Availability of these retailers may vary based on your location, so it's essential to check if they service your area before making a decision.

Which retailers offer LPG in Australia?

There are several retailers in Australia that offer LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) services. Here are some of the major providers:

Elgas

Elgas is one of the largest LPG providers in Australia, servicing both residential and commercial customers. They offer cylinder deliveries and bulk LPG supply across most of the country, including metropolitan and regional areas.

Origin Energy

Origin Energy provides LPG services to households and businesses across Australia. They offer regular cylinder deliveries, as well as bulk LPG supply for larger needs.

Kleenheat

Kleenheat supplies LPG to customers primarily in Western Australia and the Northern Territory. They provide both cylinder and bulk LPG services, catering to a wide range of needs.

Supagas

Supagas offers LPG services in several states, including New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia. They provide cylinder deliveries and bulk LPG supply for residential, commercial, and industrial customers.

United Petroleum

United Petroleum supplies LPG cylinders through its network of service stations across Australia. They focus primarily on providing LPG for automotive use but also offer gas for home use.

APG (Australian Propane Group)

APG specialises in LPG distribution, offering services primarily in New South Wales and Victoria. They cater to residential, commercial, and industrial customers with both cylinder and bulk LPG options.

Brennans

Brennans is a regional supplier of LPG in Australia, servicing areas such as Northern NSW and Southern Queensland. They offer cylinder deliveries and bulk LPG options.

BOC

BOC supplies LPG cylinders for both home and business use across Australia. They are known for their reliable delivery services and wide coverage, including regional areas.

Western Gas

Western Gas provides LPG services in Western Australia, focusing on residential, commercial, and industrial customers. They offer both cylinder deliveries and bulk LPG supply.

Gasweld

Gasweld offers LPG cylinder refills and deliveries, primarily servicing areas in New South Wales. They cater to residential, commercial, and industrial needs.

How long does switching gas suppliers take?

The time it takes to switch gas suppliers depends on the timing of your last gas meter reading. If your billing cycle is quarterly, the process can range from a few days to a couple of months. You can usually find the date of your next meter reading on your latest gas bill.

Similar to electricity accounts, there is a 10-day cooling-off period when you switch gas suppliers. This means you have 10 business days from the date of the agreement to cancel the contract if you change your mind. If you decide to terminate the contract after this period, you may incur exit fees.

Does it cost money to change gas suppliers?

Before switching gas providers, it’s important to consider any connection, disconnection, or exit fees that might apply. Gas retailers are legally required to provide an energy price fact sheet for each of their plans, detailing all associated fees and charges. Be sure to review this document thoroughly before making your decision.

Your natural gas supply should not be interrupted when you switch retailers. Since all gas comes from the same mains network, the process is seamless. After your final meter reading, your new provider will simply take over your account without any disruption to your service.

Are you ready to switch?

Compare Energy is available for a chat right now on 1300 790 106 if you’re ready to swap suppliers or renew your gas plan needs. Our Aussie-based team is here to ensure that you get the best possible deal with a swift connection.