EWON visits Menindee, Wilcannia and Broken Hill

Media release – 22 April 2024 

Free help and advice for residents 

The Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON) will be in Menindee, Wilcannia and Broken Hill joining the Tenant Support and Education Project’s Community Days from Tuesday 30th of April – Thursday 2nd of May 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. 

Seventy-four percent of all complaints to EWON from customers in the Far West and Orana region in 2022/23 were about billing or affordability issues which include high bills, disconnection, payment difficulties or debt collection. There were 24 complaints per 10,000 people in the region – the fifth highest number of complaints by population out of all regions in NSW. 

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

“The region is regularly subject to extreme weather conditions 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 First Nations communities including about legal and financial issues, tenancy rights, phone and internet services 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. 

• Menindee: Tuesday 30 April, 10am to 3pm | Basketball courts, Multi-Purpose complex, Yartla St 
• Wilcannia: Wednesday 1 May, 10am to 3pm | Wilcannia Community Hall, 78 Woore St 
• Broken Hill: Thursday 2 May, 10am to 3pm | Sturt Park, 256 Sulphide St, Broken Hill 

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 0426 822 341.