Natural gas accounts for a quarter of Australia’s energy consumption, according to the Department of the Environment and Energy.1 Not only is it helpful for the hip pocket, but it’s also arguably better for the environment than electricity produced from coal, as noted by the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources.2
So, let us show you what to look for when comparing gas plans.
Each energy plan that provides natural gas is similarly structured. Here’s a list of things you need to look out for when comparing gas prices:
Now that you know what to look for, see if you can find yourself a better deal! Compare gas and electricity rates for free with our handy comparison tool.
You can switch gas providers if you’re in an area with more than one provider, and your state or territory’s tenancy laws say switching is allowed.
Remember: not all areas in Australia have more than one gas provider, which means not all renters will be able to switch gas providers. This is true for all Australians, not just renters.
Yes, you can switch providers or gas plans if you’re moving to a new house. You’ll have to sign up for a new plan with your new provider, and cancel your existing one for when you move.
If you compare and switch gas and/or electricity plans with us while moving, we’ll even help sort out the paperwork! For details on how the process works, check out our guide to connecting utilities when moving.
N.B. Our gas comparison service isn’t available in all areas of Australia.
Your usage charges for gas may fall into a block rate tariff, where you’re charged different amounts depending on how much you use. For example, the first 100MJ per day is charged at 3c/MJ but the next 200MJ per day is charged at 2c/MJ. Alternatively, you may be charged a flat rate for gas usage throughout the day.
Some parts of Australia also have a seasonal gas rate, with winter months having different usage charges to non-winter months. This is because gas is often used in heaters and there may be more demand in colder areas of Australia during winter.
To learn more about different tariff types, you can see our handy tariff explainer.
Natural gas generally comes from pockets of gas buried underground, but it can also be harvested from landfills. You can learn more by checking out our page on natural gas here.
If you have energy-hungry older appliances, you may want to consider upgrading and replacing them with newer, more energy-efficient alternatives. For example, did you know you can invest in gas clothes dryers, which can be much more cost-effective to run than their electric counterparts?
If you’re ready to be more efficient with your gas usage, here are some useful tips to consider:
If you’re using a gas oven, try to keep preheating and cooking time to a minimum. Avoid opening the oven door too many times, as this releases much of the heat.
Putting lids on your pots and pans saves energy as less heat is wasted. It can also speed up the cooking process.
You may want to consider ‘zoning’ your gas heating throughout your home (i.e. confining heating to rooms often used in the house). This way, you have the flexibility to use only what is required.
There are many ways to save gas and save on your next gas bill. For more ideas, read our full list of gas-saving tips.
