Welcome news today for Australian energy consumers with the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Consumer Price Index (CPI) update detailing a fall in electricity prices in the September 2020 quarter.

The ABS found electricity continued to fall by 0.7 per cent for the quarter nationally and 2.5 per cent through the year. 

This is the seventh straight quarter of ABS CPI electricity price reductions compared to the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

This follows recent reports from the Australian Energy Market Operator that wholesale electricity prices in the National Electricity Market (NEM) have dropped to levels not seen since 2014, and the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission that found households and small businesses were paying less for their electricity.

“After energy prices doubled when Labor was in government, report after report confirm energy prices are falling under the Morrison Government,” Minister Taylor said.

“We now have seven consecutive quarters of price reductions nationally, and nine consecutive quarters in Sydney and Adelaide - that’s price falls in every single quarter under the Morrison Government.

“In comparison, there was not a single ABS CPI quarterly reduction in Australian electricity prices under Labor.

“The Government’s initiatives are clearly working to drive down prices for Australian households and businesses.

“This is good news comes at a time when families and business owners are dealing with  the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.”

There are still better deals available and consumers can cut their costs by comparing offers in the market and switching suppliers. The ACCC found typical residential customers could save up to $219 by shopping around, while typical small businesses could save $424 a year.

The Government’s free energy comparison website, energymadeeasy.gov.au compares all available offers in the region and is an excellent resource for families and small businesses to find the best deal for their energy needs.

The findings from the ABS, AEMO and the ACCC demonstrate our policies are creating real savings for Australians. The Government will continue to deliver reforms across the electricity market that put downward pressure on prices and ensure families and businesses have access to affordable, reliable power.

Media contact: Minister Taylor’s office 02 6277 7120