Energy bill complaints increase in Coffs Harbour - Grafton

Ombudsman to host Bring Your Bills Days in the region 

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) is hosting Bring Your Bills Days for residents and small businesses in Macksville, Coffs Harbour and South Grafton from Tuesday 9th – Thursday 11th of April 2024. 

EWON is a free and fair dispute resolution service that assists customers when they can’t resolve issues with their energy or water provider. 

In 2022/2023, there was a 32% increase in complaints to EWON from customers in the Coffs Harbour – Grafton region, and an 18% increase from Mid North Coast customers. On average, 65% of all complaints to EWON from customers in these regions were about billing, including high or estimated bills or problems with rebates or concessions.   

Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young said EWON is holding these events to assist locals with their energy and water bills and provide information on rebates and concessions for customers concerned about rising energy prices.   

“These regions are regularly subject to extreme weather conditions including flooding, and over the past 12 months, cost of living pressures and increased energy prices. This could result in customers ending up with high energy debt. We’re bringing our staff directly to locals, to offer advice about managing bills, saving energy and dealing with providers. We’re there to confidentially listen to people’s concerns, review bills and work with locals to resolve any issues they may have – on the spot.”   

Each event will provide ‘one-stop-shop’ advice, support and information. EWON will be joined by a range of community and government agencies, and energy retailers who can provide direct assistance to their customers with their energy bills. There will also be support and advice for seniors and carers including about legal and financial issues, tenancy rights and community and social services.   

Customers are encouraged to bring along current and past energy bills, letters from retailers, Centrelink Health Cards, and any other concession cards. 

• Macksville: Tuesday 9 April, 11am to 4pm | Macksville Senior Citizens Centre 
• Coffs Harbour: Wednesday 10 April, 10am-5pm | Cavanbah Centre 
• Grafton: Thursday 11 April, 11am-4pm | New School of Arts Neighborhood House 

To request an interview with the Ombudsman, or if you would like to cover the event in person, please email jacquelineh@ewon.com.au or call 0426822341.