Gold Coast

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Utilities

Essential services such as electricity, gas, and water connections for new residents.

Sections

1. Electricity

Electricity is an essential utility in the Gold Coast, and the market is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers based on your needs and preferences.

Key Providers

  • Origin Energy
  • AGL
  • EnergyAustralia
  • Alinta Energy
  • Red Energy
  • Powershop

Typical Costs

  • Daily Supply Charge: AUD 0.90–1.20 per day
  • Usage Charge: AUD 0.20–0.30 per kWh (kilowatt-hour)
  • Average Monthly Bill: AUD 120–150 for a small household; AUD 200–300 for a larger family home.

Setup Process

  1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans using websites like Energy Made Easy or Canstar Blue.
  2. Sign Up: Contact the provider online or by phone. You’ll need:
    • Address of the property
    • Move-in date
    • Identification (e.g., passport, driver’s license)
  3. Connection: Most providers can connect electricity within 1–3 business days. If the property already has power, the transfer is seamless.

Things to Consider

  • Off-Peak Rates: Some plans offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours (e.g., late night or early morning).
  • Green Energy Options: Many providers offer renewable energy plans for an additional cost.
  • Exit Fees: Check if there are fees for switching providers or ending a contract early.

2. Gas

Gas is used for cooking, heating, and hot water in many homes. Like electricity, the gas market is deregulated, so you can choose your provider.

Key Providers

  • Origin Energy
  • AGL
  • EnergyAustralia
  • Alinta Energy

Typical Costs

  • Daily Supply Charge: AUD 0.60–0.90 per day
  • Usage Charge: AUD 0.04–0.06 per MJ (megajoule)
  • Average Monthly Bill: AUD 50–100, depending on usage.

Setup Process

  1. Choose a Provider: Use comparison websites to find the best plan.
  2. Sign Up: Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
  3. Connection: Gas connection may take 1–5 business days. If the property already has gas, the transfer is straightforward.

Things to Consider

  • Bundling Options: Some providers offer discounts if you bundle gas and electricity services.
  • Meter Reading: Ensure the meter is read on the day you move in to avoid being charged for the previous tenant’s usage.

3. Water

Water services in the Gold Coast are managed by the local government through Urban Utilities or Gold Coast Water. Unlike electricity and gas, water is not deregulated, so you cannot choose your provider.

Key Provider

  • Gold Coast Water (City of Gold Coast)

Typical Costs

  • Water Usage Charge: AUD 3.50–4.00 per kL (kilolitre)
  • Sewerage Charge: AUD 1.50–2.00 per day
  • Average Quarterly Bill: AUD 250–400, depending on household size and usage.

Setup Process

  1. Automatic Setup: Water services are typically managed by the landlord or property manager for renters. Homeowners will need to contact Gold Coast Water to set up an account.
  2. Billing: Bills are issued quarterly and include both water usage and sewerage charges.

Things to Consider

  • Water Restrictions: Be mindful of water conservation rules, especially during droughts.
  • Shared Meters: In apartments, water usage may be shared, and costs are divided among residents.

4. Internet

The Gold Coast has excellent internet coverage, including the National Broadband Network (NBN), which provides high-speed internet to most areas.

Key Providers

  • Telstra
  • Optus
  • TPG
  • Aussie Broadband
  • iiNet
  • Vodafone

Typical Costs

  • Basic Plan (25 Mbps): AUD 50–70 per month
  • Standard Plan (50 Mbps): AUD 70–90 per month
  • Premium Plan (100 Mbps): AUD 90–120 per month
  • Installation Fee: Often waived for new customers or ranges from AUD 50–100.

Setup Process

  1. Check NBN Availability: Use the NBN Co website to confirm the type of connection available at your address (e.g., fibre, fixed wireless).
  2. Choose a Provider: Compare plans based on speed, data limits, and cost.
  3. Sign Up: Provide your address and identification. Some providers may require a credit check.
  4. Installation: If the property is NBN-ready, connection can take 1–3 business days. If not, installation may take up to 2 weeks.

Things to Consider

  • Data Limits: Most plans are unlimited, but check for any restrictions.
  • Bundling Options: Many providers offer discounts if you bundle internet with mobile or home phone services.
  • Router: Some plans include a free router, while others may charge a fee.

Bundling Options

Many providers offer discounts if you bundle multiple services (e.g., electricity, gas, and internet). For example:

  • Origin Energy: Discounts for bundling electricity and gas.
  • Telstra: Internet plans bundled with mobile or home phone services.

General Tips for Managing Utilities

  1. Compare Plans Regularly: Utility markets are competitive, so review your plans annually to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
  2. Direct Debit Discounts: Many providers offer discounts for setting up direct debit payments.
  3. Concession Discounts: If you hold a concession card (e.g., pensioner or healthcare card), you may be eligible for discounts on electricity, gas, and water.
  4. Monitor Usage: Use online portals or apps provided by utility companies to track your usage and avoid bill shocks.
  5. Emergency Contacts:
    • Electricity Outages: Contact Energex (the local distributor) at 13 62 62.
    • Gas Leaks: Call APA Group at 1800 427 532.
    • Water Issues: Contact Gold Coast Water at 1300 000 928.

By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in the Gold Coast. Let me know if you need further assistance!