Trouble paying your bill

Having trouble paying your bill?

If you are having difficulty paying an energy bill, you should contact your provider immediately to talk about your payment options. Don’t ignore a reminder notice from your energy provider.

By making early contact, your provider has the opportunity to make an arrangement that is suitable to your situation.

Some of these arrangements are:

• payment plans – you agree to pay a nominated amount regularly towards your bill
• payment extensions
• Centrepay – Centrelink customers can nominate an amount that is automatically deducted from their pension or benefit payment every fortnight
• financial hardship programs – these are available to customers who are having difficulty paying their bills. You can talk about financial hardship payments with welfare agencies.

Financial counsellors

If you are worried about paying your bill or getting disconnected, you may need to contact a welfare agency and ask for advice from a financial counsellor. A financial counsellor can provide general advice. If necessary, they can prepare a budget to assist you in your discussions with your provider. You will find contact details for organisations who may be able to help you in the table below. You can also find a financial counsellor in your area by visiting the Financial Counsellors Association Tasmania website.

Welfare agencies

Fact sheets

• Are you having difficulty paying your bills?
• Disconnections and restrictions of supply