Gold Coast

1. Electricity

Providers

Electricity in the Gold Coast is deregulated, meaning you can choose from several providers. Major electricity providers include:

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

Setup Procedure

1. Compare Plans: Use comparison websites like Energy Made Easy or Canstar Blue 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:
   • Your address
   • Move-in date
   • Identification (passport, driver’s license, or visa details)
3. Connection Time: Most providers can connect electricity within 1-3 business days. If the property already has electricity, the process is quicker.

Costs

• Daily Supply Charge: $0.80–$1.20 per day
• Usage Charge: $0.20–$0.30 per kWh
• Average Monthly Bill: $120–$150 for a small household, depending on usage.

Tips

• Many providers offer discounts for direct debit or online billing.
• Check if the property has solar panels, as this can reduce your electricity costs.

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2. Gas

Providers

Gas is also deregulated in the Gold Coast. Common providers include:

• Origin Energy
• AGL
• EnergyAustralia

Setup Procedure

1. Check Connection: Not all homes in the Gold Coast have gas connections. If your property uses gas, it will likely be for cooking or hot water.
2. Choose a Provider: Use the same comparison websites as for electricity to find a suitable gas plan.
3. Contact the Provider: Provide your address, move-in date, and identification to set up the account.
4. Connection Time: Gas connections typically take 1-5 business days.

Costs

• Daily Supply Charge: $0.60–$0.90 per day
• Usage Charge: $0.03–$0.05 per MJ (megajoule)
• Average Monthly Bill: $50–$100, depending on usage.

Tips

• Some providers offer bundled electricity and gas plans, which can save you money.
• If your property doesn’t have gas, you’ll rely on electricity for all appliances.

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3. Water

Provider

Water services in the Gold Coast are managed by Urban Utilities (formerly Gold Coast Water).

Setup Procedure

1. Automatic Setup: Water accounts are typically managed by the property owner or landlord. If you’re renting, the landlord will usually include water charges in your rent or bill you separately.
2. Contact Urban Utilities: If you’re a homeowner, contact Urban Utilities to set up your account. You’ll need:
   • Your address
   • Move-in date
   • Identification

Costs

• Water Usage Charge: $3.50–$4.00 per kilolitre
• Sewerage Charge: $1.20–$1.50 per day
• Average Quarterly Bill: $250–$350 for a small household.

Tips

• Be mindful of water restrictions, especially during drought periods. The Gold Coast often enforces water-saving measures.
• Install water-efficient appliances to reduce costs.

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4. Internet

Providers

The Gold Coast has access to the National Broadband Network (NBN), which offers high-speed internet. Major providers include:

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

Setup Procedure

1. Check NBN Availability: Use the NBN Co website to check what type of NBN connection is available at your address (e.g., Fibre to the Premises, Fibre to the Node).
2. Choose a Plan: Compare plans based on speed (e.g., 25 Mbps, 50 Mbps, 100 Mbps) and data limits. Most providers offer unlimited data plans.
3. Contact the Provider: Sign up online or via phone. You’ll need:
   • Your address
   • Identification
   • Payment details
4. Connection Time: If the property is already NBN-ready, connection can take 1-3 business days. If not, it may take up to 2 weeks.

Costs

• Monthly Plans: $60–$100 for unlimited data, depending on speed.
• Setup Fees: Some providers charge a one-time setup fee ($50–$100), but many waive this for new customers.

Tips

• If you need internet immediately, consider mobile broadband or a prepaid Wi-Fi hotspot while waiting for NBN installation.
• Aussie Broadband is highly rated for customer service and reliability.

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5. Phone Services

Providers

Mobile phone services in the Gold Coast are provided by:

• Telstra (best coverage in regional areas)
• Optus
• Vodafone
• MVNOs (e.g., Amaysim, Boost Mobile, Kogan Mobile)

Setup Procedure

1. Choose a Plan: Decide between prepaid or postpaid plans. Prepaid is more flexible, while postpaid often includes phone contracts.
2. Purchase a SIM Card: Available at supermarkets, convenience stores, or provider stores.
3. Activate the SIM: Follow the instructions provided with the SIM card. You’ll need identification (passport or driver’s license).

Costs

• Prepaid Plans: $20–$50 per month for 10–50GB of data.
• Postpaid Plans: $40–$100 per month, often bundled with a new phone.

Tips

• Telstra offers the best coverage in the Gold Coast, especially in more remote areas.
• Many providers offer international call inclusions, which can be useful for staying in touch with family overseas.

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Additional Tips for New Arrivals

1. Bank Account: Open an Australian bank account as soon as possible, as most utility providers require an Australian bank account or credit card for payments.
2. Rental Agreements: If you’re renting, check your lease agreement to understand which utilities you’re responsible for. Some landlords include water or internet in the rent.
3. Energy Efficiency: The Gold Coast has a warm climate, so consider energy-efficient cooling options like ceiling fans or air conditioning with high energy ratings.
4. Emergency Numbers: Save important numbers like Urban Utilities (13 26 57) and Energex (13 19 62 for power outages) in your phone.
5. Cultural Considerations: Australians value sustainability, so be mindful of energy and water usage. Recycling is also widely practiced, with separate bins for general waste, recyclables, and green waste.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up utilities and essential services in the Gold Coast. If you have any further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!