Cross-Border Commissioner Addresses Electricity Rebate Uncertainties

Published on 10 September 2024

Goondiwindi Regional Council urges border residents who have yet to receive their $1,000 Queensland Government Cost of Living electricity credit to contact their supplier as soon as possible. The issue, affecting Queensland residents on the New South Wales electricity network, was brought to the attention of the newly appointed Queensland Cross-Border Commissioner, Mr Ian Leavers by council following concerns raised by the region’s residents.

Goondiwindi Region Mayor, the Honourable Councillor Lawrence Springborg AM, praised Mr Leavers for his swift response to these concerns.

"Council thanks Mr Leavers for his dedication and understanding in addressing issues that uniquely impact our cross-border community.

Unlike the majority of Queensland, the Goondiwindi region's electricity network is largely operated by Essential Energy, a New South Wales provider. This has led to confusion regarding eligibility for the credit through some retailers. Some residents have been incorrectly informed by retailers that they are not entitled to the credit because they are connected to the NSW electricity grid.

Mr Leavers has worked closely with the Queensland Department of Energy and Climate to confirm that all residents living on the Queensland side of the border are indeed eligible for the credit. It should have already been applied to their accounts.

Mayor Springborg continued, "Our border community mustn't be disadvantaged due to confusion over jurisdiction. This credit is designed to help ease the financial burden of rising energy costs, and we want to ensure every eligible household receives it."

Mr Leavers has clarified that energy retailers like AGL are responsible for passing on the rebate to all Queensland residents.

Residents still waiting for their credit should first contact their energy provider's dispute resolution team.