Hobart

1. Electricity in Hobart

Overview

Electricity is one of the primary utilities in Hobart, and Tasmania’s electricity is largely generated from renewable sources, particularly hydroelectric power. The electricity market in Tasmania is deregulated, meaning you can choose your electricity provider.

Key Providers

• Aurora Energy (the main provider in Tasmania)
• 1st Energy (an alternative provider)

Average Costs

• Daily Supply Charge: Around AUD 0.90–1.10 per day.
• Usage Charge: Approximately AUD 0.25–0.30 per kWh.
• Monthly Bill: For a small household, expect to pay AUD 100–150 per month. Larger households may pay AUD 200–300 per month, depending on usage.

How to Set Up Electricity

1. Choose a Provider: Compare plans on websites like Energy Made Easy (https://www.energymadeeasy.gov.au) or directly contact Aurora Energy or 1st Energy.
2. Provide Details: You’ll need your address, identification (passport or driver’s license), and move-in date.
3. Connection Time: Most connections are completed within 1–3 business days. If the property already has power, it may only require a transfer of account.
4. Bond/Deposit: Some providers may require a deposit if you don’t have a credit history in Australia.

Local Considerations

• Off-Peak Rates: Many plans offer cheaper rates during off-peak hours. Consider using appliances like washing machines or dishwashers during these times.
• Energy Efficiency: Hobart can get cold in winter, so ensure your home is well-insulated to reduce heating costs.

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2. Water in Hobart

Overview

Water services in Hobart are managed by TasWater, the sole provider for the region. Water is billed quarterly and includes charges for water usage and sewerage services.

Average Costs

• Fixed Water Service Charge: Around AUD 300–350 per year.
• Usage Charge: Approximately AUD 1.00–1.50 per kilolitre.
• Quarterly Bill: Expect to pay AUD 200–300 for an average household.

How to Set Up Water

1. Contact TasWater: Call or visit their website (https://www.taswater.com.au) to set up an account.
2. Provide Details: You’ll need your address, move-in date, and identification.
3. Connection Time: If the property already has water, the account transfer is immediate. For new connections, it may take a few days.

Local Considerations

• Rainwater Tanks: Many Hobart residents use rainwater tanks to supplement their water supply, especially in rural areas.
• Water Conservation: Tasmania values water conservation. Be mindful of water restrictions during dry periods.

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3. Gas in Hobart

Overview

Gas is less commonly used in Hobart compared to other Australian cities. However, natural gas and bottled LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) are available for heating, cooking, and hot water.

Key Providers

• Tas Gas Retail (for natural gas)
• Elgas or Kleenheat (for bottled LPG)

Average Costs

• Natural Gas: Around AUD 0.03–0.05 per MJ (megajoule) for usage, with a daily supply charge of AUD 0.50–0.70.
• Bottled LPG: A 45kg bottle costs around AUD 120–150, and a household may use 1–2 bottles per month in winter.
• Monthly Bill: Natural gas users can expect to pay AUD 50–100 per month, while LPG users may pay AUD 100–300 depending on usage.

How to Set Up Gas

1. Natural Gas:
   • Contact Tas Gas Retail to check if your property is connected to the gas network.
   • Provide your address, move-in date, and identification.
   • Connection may take 1–5 business days.
2. Bottled LPG:
   • Contact a supplier like Elgas or Kleenheat to arrange delivery.
   • Provide your address and payment details.
   • Bottles are usually delivered within 1–3 business days.

Local Considerations

• Availability: Natural gas is not available in all areas of Hobart. Check with Tas Gas Retail to confirm.
• Safety: Ensure gas appliances are regularly serviced for safety and efficiency.

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4. Internet in Hobart

Overview

Hobart has access to the National Broadband Network (NBN), which provides high-speed internet via fibre, fixed wireless, or satellite. Mobile broadband is also widely available.

Key Providers

• Telstra
• Optus
• TPG
• Aussie Broadband
• iiNet

Average Costs

• NBN Plans:
  • Basic (12 Mbps): AUD 50–60 per month.
  • Standard (25 Mbps): AUD 60–80 per month.
  • Fast (50 Mbps): AUD 70–100 per month.
  • Superfast (100 Mbps): AUD 90–130 per month.
• Mobile Broadband: AUD 30–60 per month for 50–100GB of data.

How to Set Up Internet

1. Check NBN Availability: Use the NBN Co website (https://www.nbnco.com.au) to check what type of connection is available at your address.
2. Choose a Provider: Compare plans on websites like WhistleOut (https://www.whistleout.com.au).
3. Sign Up: Provide your address, identification, and payment details.
4. Connection Time: Fibre connections may take 1–2 weeks, while mobile broadband can be set up immediately.

Local Considerations

• Data Caps: Some plans have data limits, so choose an unlimited plan if you’re a heavy user.
• Mobile Coverage: If you’re in a rural area, check mobile network coverage before committing to a provider.

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General Tips for Setting Up Utilities in Hobart

1. Plan Ahead: Arrange utility connections at least a week before moving in to ensure services are active when you arrive.
2. Bundle Services: Some providers offer discounts if you bundle electricity, gas, and internet.
3. Direct Debit Discounts: Many providers offer small discounts (e.g., 1–2%) for setting up direct debit payments.
4. Concessions: If you hold a concession card (e.g., for seniors or low-income earners), you may be eligible for discounts on electricity, water, and gas bills.
5. Meter Readings: Take note of meter readings when you move in to avoid being charged for the previous tenant’s usage.
6. Emergency Contacts:
   • Electricity: Aurora Energy (Faults and Emergencies) – 132 004.
   • Water: TasWater (Faults and Emergencies) – 136 992.
   • Gas: Tas Gas Retail (Emergencies) – 1800 211 827.

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to set up and manage your utilities in Hobart, ensuring a smooth transition to life in this beautiful Tasmanian city.