Canberra

1. Electricity

Electricity is an essential utility in Canberra, and the city operates within the National Electricity Market (NEM). Residents can choose from several electricity providers.

Key Providers:

• ActewAGL (local provider, popular in Canberra)
• Origin Energy
• AGL
• EnergyAustralia
• Red Energy

Setup Procedure:

1. Compare Plans: Use comparison websites like Energy Made Easy to find the best plan for your needs.
2. Contact the Provider: Once you’ve chosen a provider, contact them online or via phone to set up your account. You’ll need:
   • Proof of identity (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
   • Address of the property
   • Move-in date
3. Connection Time: Most providers can connect electricity within 1-3 business days. If the property already has power, the process is quicker.

Costs:

• Daily Supply Charge: ~$0.80–$1.20 per day
• Usage Rates: ~$0.20–$0.30 per kWh
• Average Monthly Bill: ~$100–$150 for a small household, depending on usage.

Local Considerations:

• ActewAGL is the most commonly used provider in Canberra, offering competitive rates and discounts for bundling electricity and gas.
• Many homes in Canberra use electric heating during winter due to the city’s cold climate, so expect higher electricity bills in colder months.

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2. Water

Water services in Canberra are managed by Icon Water, the sole provider for the region.

Setup Procedure:

1. Automatic Connection: Water is typically connected automatically when you move into a property. The landlord or property manager usually handles this for renters.
2. Billing: If you’re a tenant, you may only be responsible for usage charges, while the property owner covers the supply charge. Confirm this with your lease agreement.

Costs:

• Daily Supply Charge: ~$0.50–$0.60 per day
• Usage Rates: ~$2.50–$5.00 per kilolitre (tiered pricing based on usage)
• Average Quarterly Bill: ~$150–$250 for a small household.

Local Considerations:

• Canberra has a strong focus on water conservation. Be mindful of water restrictions during drought periods.
• Icon Water offers online account management and direct debit options for easy bill payments.

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3. Gas

Gas is commonly used in Canberra for heating, hot water, and cooking. Like electricity, you can choose from several providers.

Key Providers:

• ActewAGL (dominant local provider)
• Origin Energy
• AGL
• EnergyAustralia

Setup Procedure:

1. Compare Plans: Use comparison websites to find the best gas plan.
2. Contact the Provider: Provide your address, move-in date, and proof of identity to set up your account.
3. Connection Time: Gas connections typically take 1-3 business days. If the property already has gas, the process is faster.

Costs:

• Daily Supply Charge: ~$0.60–$0.90 per day
• Usage Rates: ~$0.03–$0.05 per MJ (megajoule)
• Average Monthly Bill: ~$80–$120, depending on usage.

Local Considerations:

• ActewAGL often offers discounts for bundling gas and electricity.
• Gas heating is popular in Canberra due to the cold winters, so gas bills may be higher during this season.

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4. Internet

Canberra has excellent internet infrastructure, including access to the National Broadband Network (NBN). Most areas are connected to the NBN, offering high-speed internet.

Key Providers:

• Telstra
• Optus
• TPG
• iiNet
• Aussie Broadband

Setup Procedure:

1. Check NBN Availability: Use the NBN Co website to confirm the type of NBN connection available at your address (e.g., Fibre to the Premises, Fibre to the Node).
2. Choose a Provider: Compare plans based on speed, data limits, and cost.
3. Sign Up: Contact the provider to set up your account. You’ll need:
   • Address of the property
   • Proof of identity
   • Move-in date
4. Connection Time: If the property is already NBN-ready, connection can take 1-2 business days. If not, it may take up to 2 weeks.

Costs:

• Monthly Plans: ~$60–$100 for unlimited data, depending on speed (e.g., 50 Mbps or 100 Mbps).
• Setup Fees: Some providers charge a one-time setup fee (~$50–$100), but this is often waived during promotions.

Local Considerations:

• Aussie Broadband is highly rated for customer service and reliability in Canberra.
• If you’re in a newly developed area, check for NBN readiness as some suburbs may still rely on alternative connections like 4G or fixed wireless.

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5. Phone (Mobile and Landline)

Mobile phone services are widely available in Canberra, with excellent coverage from major providers. Landlines are less common but can be bundled with internet plans.

Key Providers:

• Telstra (best coverage, especially in rural areas)
• Optus
• Vodafone
• Boost Mobile (Telstra network)
• Amaysim (Optus network)

Setup Procedure:

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans based on data, call/text inclusions, and coverage.
2. Purchase a SIM Card: Available at provider stores, supermarkets, or online.
3. Activate the SIM: Follow the provider’s instructions to activate your SIM card. You’ll need:
   • Proof of identity
   • Address
4. Landline Setup: If needed, request a landline connection through your internet provider.

Costs:

• Prepaid Plans: ~$10–$50 per month, depending on data and call/text inclusions.
• Postpaid Plans: ~$30–$100 per month, often bundled with a new phone.
• Landline: ~$10–$20 per month when bundled with internet.

Local Considerations:

• Telstra offers the best mobile coverage in Canberra, especially in outer suburbs or rural areas.
• Many residents rely solely on mobile phones, as landlines are becoming less common.

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Additional Tips for New Residents:

1. Bundling Discounts: Many providers (e.g., ActewAGL, Telstra) offer discounts for bundling multiple services like electricity, gas, and internet.
2. Direct Debit and E-Billing: Most providers offer discounts for setting up direct debit payments and opting for electronic billing.
3. Energy Efficiency: Canberra’s winters can be cold, so consider energy-efficient appliances and insulation to reduce heating costs.
4. Moving Checklist: Notify utility providers at least 1-2 weeks before your move-in date to ensure timely connections.

By following this guide, you’ll be able to set up your utilities and connections in Canberra smoothly and efficiently. Let me know if you need further assistance!