MEDIA RELEASE

NICK XENOPHON M.L.C.

INDEPENDENT NO POKIES MEMBER OF THE LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL  

23 July, 2004

CHANGES TO ELECTRICITY AND GAS BILLS MEANS CONSUMERS WON’T BE TREATED LIKE MUSHROOMS ANY MORE  

South Australian consumers will “no longer be treated like mushrooms” following amendments moved by No Pokies MLC Nick Xenophon to Electricity and Gas legislation passed in Parliament late last night.

After campaigning on this issue last November, against the “pathetic details” on electricity bills, electricity and gas providers will now be required to provide to consumers:

•    The customer’s electricity and gas consumption during the preceding 12 months

•    The entity’s daily charges for electricity and gas during the period to which the account relates

•    Information relating to obtaining advice through the Essential Services Commission about reducing 

    energy consumption and saving money on power

•    Information about greenhouse gas emissions associated with the customer’s electricity consumption.

Mr Xenophon said: “This is a good win for consumers – it will keep electricity retailers on their toes – and put downward pressure on prices”.

It is expected that consumers will notice the changes on their accounts in the next 6 to 12 months.

Written and authorised by Nick Xenophon, 653 Lower North East Road, Paradise, SA 5075