who can switch?
Residents of Victoria, NSW, ACT, Queensland and South Australia can choose to switch both gas and electricity.
Consumers in Tasmania can only choose their gas supplier, although the government is evaluating the introduction of electricity competition and is expected to make a decision in 2010.
Residents in Western Australia and the Northern Territory do not currently have the choice to switch their gas and electricity suppliers, although the WA and NT Governments may re-evaluate this position in the future.
what services can you switch?
You can switch either or both electricity and gas depending on which of these you have in your home. When you enter your postcode into the Switchwise calculator you can compare the prices of various electricity and gas plans. If you have both gas and electricity in your home you can choose to combine the two services under the one supplier (we call these bundled plans). Many retailers offer attractive pricing to consumers who bundle these two services together.
how does your new supplier know you want to switch?
If you decide to switch energy suppliers, Switchwise will contact your chosen new supplier and they will inform your current provider.
does switchwise tell your current supplier that you want to switch?
No, not directly. If you decide to change gas or electricity suppliers Switchwise will contact your chosen new supplier who will arrange the transfer with your current supplier.
what information do you need to provide to switchwise to arrange a switch?
In order to switch suppliers you must provide personal information such as name, address, contact details and a form of identification. All information you provide is handled in strict accordance with the Switchwise Privacy Policy.
can renters switch their electricity and gas suppliers?
Yes, if you are renting your home and are responsible for the gas and electricity bills you are able to change your supplier.
However, as a renter you need to consider how long you plan to stay in your rented property before committing to a new electricity or gas provider or plan. If you choose a plan with a minimum fixed-term period and the plan is not portable then you might be liable to pay an early termination fee should you move home prior to the expiry of the fixed-term period.
can you switch your business energy supply?
Yes, businesses can switch energy providers. However, currently Switchwise does not offer its service to business customers but hopes to be able to do so in the future.