Energy bill complaints increase in North West region

Ombudsman to host FREE Bring Your Bills Days in Mungindi and Moree

The Energy & Water Ombudsman (EWON) received a significant surge in complaints from customers in the New England and North West region, with a 59% increase in complaints compared to last year.

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

To support and educate customers in the region EWON will host Bring Your Bills Days for residents and small businesses in Mungindi and Moree on 18 and 19 March 2025.

• 72% of complaints from customers in this region were about billing issues including high and estimated bills, or problems with rebates and concessions. 
• 10% of complaints were about issues with digital meters including delays and faults. 
• 7% of complaints related to credit issues including disconnection, payment difficulties and debt collection.

"We understand that customers are facing affordability challenges and accumulating energy debt. That's why we're bringing our staff directly to the community, to offer advice on managing bills, saving energy, and dealing with energy providers,” said Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW, Janine Young.

“Our aim is to address people's concerns, review bills, and work together to resolve any issues face to face.”

EWON will be joined by various energy providers, who will provide direct assistance to their customers. Additionally, many community and government agencies will be on hand to provide specialised support and advice on legal and financial matters, disability and carer support, help obtaining birth certificates as well as community services.

To make the most of these events, customers are encouraged to bring their current and past energy bills, letters from retailers, Centrelink Health Cards, and any other relevant concession cards. 

Event details

• Mungindi: Tuesday 18 March 2025, 10am - 3pm, Kamilaroi Land, Mungindi LALC, 47 Goondiwindi St
• Moree: Wednesday 19 March 2025, 10am - 3pm, Kamilaroi Land, Shae Academy, 114 Anne S

To request an interview with the Ombudsman, or if you would like to cover the event in person, please email jacquelinem@ewon.com.au or call 0426 822 341.