Consumer protection

Energy consumer protections and the Australian Energy Regulator
From 1 February 2013, the Australian Energy
Regulator (AER) became responsible for administration of the National Energy
Customer Framework (NECF). The NECF is the final stage in the transition to a
national regime for the sale and supply of electricity and gas by retailers and
distributors to retail customers.
The national energy laws are designed to protect
you in your dealings with energy retailers and distributors. Understanding your
rights and responsibilities can help you get an energy offer that works best for
you, as well as help you to resolve any problems that may arise.
For information on choosing an energy retailer,
understanding your bill, steps you can take if problems arise (including if you
are experiencing payment difficulties or financial hardship impacting on your
ability to pay your energy bills), energy efficiency, switching energy retailers
and your rights with energy marketing, please visit the Australian Energy
Regulator at www.aer.gov.au/Consumers or contact
the ACCC’s Info Centre on 1300 302 502.
Energy price comparisons
If you would like to find out how to get a free and
independent comparison of generally available electricity or gas contracts you
can access the Australian Energy Regulator’s energy price comparison service by
visiting www.energymadeeasy.gov.au or by
contacting the ACCC’s Info Centre on 1300 302 502.
SA Power Networks' Guaranteed Service Level Scheme
The Guaranteed Service Level (GSL) Scheme, which forms part of the Commission's Electricity Distribution Code, requires SA Power Networks to make automatic payments to customers in the event specified service levels are not met. This
fact sheet explains the structure of the GSL scheme and how to access further information.