Changes on the horizonPanel session: Utility Prices Spiralling out of ControlFCRC Conference September 12, 2013Caitlin WhitemanConsumer Utilities Advocacy Centre

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Flexible electricity pricing

www.switchon.vic.gov.au Energy Information Fund – http://www.switchon.vic.gov.au/why-are-power-bills-so-high/community-programs, or contact me caitlin.whiteman@cuac.org.au

Melbourne water price increases

2012-13 annual bill

2013-14 annual bill

City West Water $461 $538South East Water $445 $579Yarra Valley Water

$508 $636

$143- $195

2012-13 annual bill

2013-14 annual bill

City West Water $848 $991South East Water $863 $1,058Yarra Valley Water

$949 $1,143

For the average renter...

For the average homeowner...

$77-$128

Gas prices

Source: The Grattan Institute

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Three things financial counsellors can do1. Ensure clients are receiving all concessions, and stay up to date with changesDHS’ latest guide (August 2013) http://www.dhs.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/669227/Victorian_Concessions_guide_2013-2014_WEB_080813.pdf2. Refer clients to helpful programsArrange a HESS visit - 1800 685 682NILS Low Income Energy Efficiency Program

3. Stay up to dateCUAC newsletter POWER+WATER - sign up at www.cuac.org.au CALC newsletter On the Wire – sign up by email to info@consumeraction.org.au EWOV Connect - http://www.ewov.com.au/publications-and-media/connect