• Home
  • First Nations resources

First Nations resources

EWON acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands across New South Wales. We pay our respects to Elders past and present and we offer our thanks to Aboriginal communities who welcome us on their land. Ngara ngwiya yudi - listen, give, guide

 

Who are we

We are the Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW. We provide free, fair and independent dispute resolution services to NSW electricity, gas, and water customers. We work towards a reasonable outcome for all parties in a dispute.

If you have an issue with your provider, contact them first. If they are unable to resolve the problem or you're not satisfied with their response, you can submit your complaint online or call us on 1800 246 545.
 

Direct phone line

We have a dedicated phone queue for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers. The queue allows customers to self-identify, so we can understand the volume, need and location of complaints to target our outreach activities. It also allows staff to ensure they are mindful of cultural sensitivities and expectations.
 

Reconciliation Action Plan

EWON supports the national reconciliation movement. Our journey towards reconciliation started over 10 years ago, when we engaged an Aboriginal Community Engagement Officer to establish an Aboriginal Community Outreach Program for communities across NSW. We have continually expanded our focus by introducing cultural awareness training for all staff, developing culturally appropriate EWON resources and celebrating significant Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander events throughout each year.
 

Our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) acknowledges the work we have done so far but also outlines how we will progress our existing support of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. Our RAP is being implemented through changes to policies, but most importantly, it is firmly embedded into our day-to-day operations.

 

First Nations community engagement

Our dedicated Aboriginal Community Engagement Officer visits communities to build and strengthen links with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, their leaders and the agencies and services that work in them. We make sure our services are accessible to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities no matter where in NSW they are. Keep an eye on our event page, to see if we’re coming to a location near you.
 

Good Service Mob

EWON is part of the Good Service Mob, a collaboration of Indigenous and non-Indigenous staff from complaint-handling agencies who help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander consumers in NSW.


The Good Service Mob was set up in 2005 to help ensure all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across NSW are aware of their rights as consumers, and the free services available to help them.  Visit the Good Service Mob website for details of upcoming events.


If you'd like to discuss a partnership with EWON, contact us.


Mob Matters

Energy and water bills can be really expensive, so we worked with comedian Sean Choolburra to help you save on both. Read our tips and tricks on how to reduce your energy and water costs: Mob matters - Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (ewon.com.au)

 

Specific resources for First Nations communities

If you need more information, please click on the links below.

DL brochure: Having problems with your electricity, gas or water provider?  View
Stepped guide: Your guide to energy and water issues in NSW View
A3 poster: Featuring artwork "Within Reach" View
Colouring in sheet: Featuring artwork "Within reach" View