Key takeaways
- Switching is free in competitive markets — no switching fees under National Energy Retail Law.
- You do not need to cancel with your old retailer; the new one coordinates the transfer.
- A cooling-off period (typically 10 business days) applies after sign-up in most states.
Switching electricity or gas retailers costs nothing and your supply stays on throughout. The entire process usually takes a few minutes online — here is exactly what to do and what to watch for.
On this page
Before you switch
Check your current plan for early-termination fees. Standing offers and most market offers have none. Fixed-term contracts may charge a flat exit fee — often outweighed by months of savings on a better plan.
Four steps to switch
Energy switching checklist
- 1Gather your latest bill — you need your NMI (National Meter Identifier), account number, and annual usage in kWh
- 2Compare plans by estimated annual cost for your usage, not headline discount percentages
- 3Complete sign-up with the new retailer — they coordinate the transfer with your distributor
- 4Keep your Energy Price Fact Sheet and verify your first bill matches the quoted rates
What happens after you switch
Transfer typically completes within one to two billing cycles (4–8 weeks). Smart meters allow faster completion. Your first bill may show an estimated opening read — contact the retailer if it looks wrong.
Switching when you rent
Renters can usually choose their electricity retailer if the property has its own meter. Embedded networks in apartments and caravan parks have different rules — check with your landlord or body corporate.
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Frequently asked questions
Switching energy provider — step-by-step answers to the most common questions.
Will my power be cut off during the switch?
No. Your electricity supply runs through the distributor's physical network, which is unaffected by a retailer change. The transfer is a billing and account handover only — your lights stay on throughout.
How long does an energy switch take?
Most retailer-to-retailer transfers complete within one to two billing cycles — typically 4–8 weeks — depending on meter type and distributor processes. Smart meters generally allow faster completion as reads are done remotely.
Do I need to cancel with my current retailer?
In most cases no — the new retailer submits the transfer request to the distributor on your behalf, which notifies the old retailer. If you are in a fixed-term contract, it is good practice to notify the old retailer in writing and confirm any exit fee.
Can I switch if I rent my property?
In most states, renters can choose their own electricity retailer as long as the property has its own meter. If you share a meter or are on an embedded network (common in apartments and caravan parks), different rules apply. Check with your landlord or body corporate.