Perth

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Utilities Setup

Guidance on connecting essential utilities such as electricity, gas, water, and internet for a new home.

Sections

1. Electricity

Electricity in Perth is deregulated, meaning you can choose your provider. However, Synergy is the primary electricity provider for residential customers in the Perth metropolitan area.

Steps to Set Up Electricity:

  1. Choose a Provider:

    • Synergy is the main provider, but you can also explore other options like Alinta Energy or AGL for specific plans.
    • Compare plans on websites like Energy Made Easy or Canstar Blue.

  2. Contact the Provider:

    • Visit the provider’s website or call their customer service to set up an account.
    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details (e.g., ID, contact information).

  3. Connection Timeline:

    • If the property already has electricity, the connection can usually be activated within 1-3 business days.
    • If a new connection is required, it may take up to 10 business days.

  4. Costs:

    • Connection Fee: Around AUD 40-60 (one-time fee).
    • Usage Costs: Approximately 28-30 cents per kWh, plus a daily supply charge of around 90 cents.
    • Expect monthly bills to range from AUD 100-200, depending on usage.

Tips:

  • Perth has a warm climate, so electricity bills can increase during summer due to air conditioning. Use energy-efficient appliances to save costs.
  • Consider signing up for a plan with discounts for direct debit or online billing.

2. Gas

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

Steps to Set Up Gas:

  1. Choose a Provider:

    • Common providers include Alinta Energy (the largest in WA), Kleenheat, and Origin Energy.
    • Compare plans online to find the best rates.

  2. Contact the Provider:

    • Provide your address, move-in date, and personal details.
    • If the property already has a gas connection, the provider will activate it remotely or send a technician if required.

  3. Connection Timeline:

    • Activation typically takes 1-3 business days for existing connections.
    • For new connections, it may take up to 10 business days.

  4. Costs:

    • Connection Fee: Around AUD 40-60 (one-time fee).
    • Usage Costs: Approximately 4-6 cents per MJ (megajoule), plus a daily supply charge of around 20-30 cents.
    • Monthly bills range from AUD 50-150, depending on usage.

Tips:

  • If you’re renting, check with your landlord or property manager to confirm if gas is already connected.
  • Some homes in Perth may not have a gas connection and rely solely on electricity.

3. Water

Water services in Perth are managed by the Water Corporation, a government-owned utility.

Steps to Set Up Water:

  1. Contact the Water Corporation:

    • Visit their website (Water Corporation) or call their customer service to set up an account.
    • Provide your address and move-in date.

  2. Connection Timeline:

    • Water is typically already connected in most properties. You’ll just need to set up billing in your name.

  3. Costs:

    • Service Charge: Around AUD 250-300 per year (billed quarterly).
    • Usage Costs: Approximately AUD 2-3 per kilolitre (1,000 litres).
    • Average quarterly bills range from AUD 150-250, depending on usage.

Tips:

  • Perth has a dry climate, so water conservation is important. Be mindful of water restrictions, especially during summer.
  • Check for leaks or dripping taps to avoid high bills.

4. Internet

Perth has a variety of internet providers offering NBN (National Broadband Network) and mobile broadband services.

Steps to Set Up Internet:

  1. Check NBN Availability:

    • Use the NBN Co website (NBN Co) to check if your property is NBN-ready.
    • If NBN is unavailable, you may need to use ADSL or mobile broadband.

  2. Choose a Provider:

    • Popular providers include Telstra, Optus, TPG, iiNet (based in Perth), and Aussie Broadband.
    • Compare plans based on speed (e.g., 25 Mbps, 50 Mbps, 100 Mbps) and data limits.

  3. Contact the Provider:

    • Provide your address and personal details.
    • If your property is NBN-ready, the provider will arrange for activation. If not, they may need to send a technician.

  4. Connection Timeline:

    • NBN activation typically takes 1-2 weeks.
    • If a technician is required, it may take longer.

  5. Costs:

    • Setup Fee: AUD 0-100 (depending on the provider and plan).
    • Monthly Plans: AUD 60-100 for unlimited data, depending on speed.

Tips:

  • iiNet is a local provider with strong customer service and competitive plans.
  • If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord whether the property is NBN-ready.

5. Waste Management

Waste collection in Perth is managed by local councils (e.g., City of Perth, City of Stirling). Services include general waste, recycling, and green waste.

Steps to Set Up Waste Collection:

  1. Contact Your Local Council:

    • Visit your council’s website or call their waste management department.
    • Provide your address to confirm the collection schedule.

  2. Bin Delivery:

    • If bins are not already at the property, request them from the council. Delivery is usually free.

  3. Collection Schedule:

    • General waste (red bin): Weekly.
    • Recycling (yellow bin): Fortnightly.
    • Green waste (lime green bin): Fortnightly (if applicable).

  4. Costs:

    • Waste management fees are included in council rates, which are typically paid by the property owner (landlord).

Tips:

  • Familiarize yourself with what can and cannot be recycled. Councils often provide guides or apps for this.
  • Bulk waste collection (e.g., furniture, appliances) is available periodically. Check with your council for dates.

Additional Tips for Newcomers:

  • Bundling Utilities: Some providers offer discounts if you bundle electricity, gas, and internet services.
  • Renting Considerations: If you’re renting, confirm with your landlord or property manager which utilities are already connected and whose name they should be under.
  • Payment Options: Most providers offer flexible payment options, including direct debit, BPAY, and credit card. Setting up direct debit can help you avoid late fees.
  • Cultural Considerations: Australians are environmentally conscious. Be mindful of energy and water usage, and participate in recycling programs.

By following these steps, you’ll be able to set up your utilities in Perth efficiently and start enjoying your new home! Let me know if you need further assistance.