Average Electricity Bill in Australia by State (2026)

Knowing what the average electricity bill is in your state is the first step to knowing whether you're overpaying. According to EnergyPlans research (updated April 2026) and Canstar's Pulse survey (May 2026), here's what Australian households are actually paying — and what the benchmark should be for your situation.

Average Electricity Bill by State (2026)

State	Average Annual Bill	Average Quarterly Bill
South Australia	$1,580	$395
Western Australia	$1,490	$373
New South Wales	$1,450	$363
Queensland	$1,420	$355
Victoria	$1,380	$345
Tasmania	$1,340	$335
ACT	$1,310	$328
National average	$1,430	$358

Source: EnergyPlans research, April 2026. Based on average household usage of approximately 4,900 kWh/year. Finder research notes average quarterly bills of approximately $399 nationally.

Average Bill by Household Size

Household Size	Average Annual Bill
1 person	~$800–$1,000
2 people	~$1,200–$1,520
3–4 people	~$1,520–$2,000
5+ people	~$2,000–$2,800+

What Does Your Electricity Bill Actually Consist Of?

Most Australian electricity bills have two components:

• Supply charge: A fixed daily charge just for being connected — typically $0.80–$1.20/day ($292–$438/year). This is unavoidable and doesn't change with your usage.
• Usage charge: Per kilowatt-hour (kWh) charge for electricity consumed. In 2026, residential rates range from 25–40 cents/kWh depending on your state and plan. South Australia averages the highest at around 35–40c/kWh.

A typical household using 20 kWh/day at 32c/kWh pays approximately $2,336/year in usage charges alone — plus the supply charge on top. This is why both choosing the right plan and reducing usage matter.

Why Bills Vary So Much by State

• Market competition: Victoria and South Australia have competitive retail electricity markets with many providers. WA is largely government-owned with less retail competition.
• Network costs: Transmitting electricity across Queensland and NSW's large geographic areas is expensive, increasing network charges.
• Energy mix: States with high solar penetration have more volatile wholesale prices but more competitive retail options.
• Climate: Queensland's heat drives high air conditioning use; Tasmania's cold increases heating demand.

Is Your Bill Higher Than the Average? Check These First

1. Are You on a Competitive Plan?

The gap between the cheapest and most expensive plan for the same household is 20–40% in most states. Use the government's free tools:

• Energy Made Easy (energymadeeasy.gov.au) — NSW, QLD, SA, ACT, TAS
• Victorian Energy Compare (compare.energy.vic.gov.au) — Victoria only

Enter your most recent bill — the tool shows exactly how much you'd save on every available plan. Savings of $200–$600/year are common just from switching. This is free and takes 20 minutes.

2. Is Your Hot Water Running at Peak Rates?

Hot water is typically 25–30% of an electricity bill. If your electric storage hot water system is running on your standard tariff, switching it to off-peak (one phone call to your retailer) saves $100–$250/year immediately.

3. Do You Have a Second Fridge?

An old fridge in the garage running 24/7 costs $150–$300/year in electricity. If it's not regularly full, switching it off when not needed is an immediate saving with no lifestyle impact.

4. Are You on the Right Tariff?

Time-of-use tariffs charge less for electricity used overnight and on weekends. If you can shift dishwasher, washing machine and dryer use to off-peak hours, a time-of-use tariff can reduce your bill meaningfully. Ask your provider about both tariff options — switching is free.

State-by-State: Quick Guide

South Australia — $1,580/year average

Australia's highest average bills — but also one of the most competitive retail markets. SA households paying significantly over $1,580/year should compare plans immediately. Solar penetration is the highest in Australia and can dramatically cut net bills for homeowners.

New South Wales — $1,450/year average

NSW households on quarterly bills over $400 should compare plans via Energy Made Easy. The NSW market has strong competition including smaller retailers like Amber Electric and Powershop.

Victoria — $1,380/year average

Victoria's competitive market means the gap between the cheapest and most expensive plan is often the largest of any state. Victorian Energy Compare regularly shows potential savings of $300–$600/year for households on standard offers.

Queensland — $1,420/year average

Queensland households should check eligibility for the state government electricity rebate program. High air conditioning usage in summer drives bills above the national average for many households.

The Fastest Ways to Reduce Your Bill Right Now

1. Compare and switch plans — 20 minutes, save $200–$600/year
2. Call your provider and ask for a discount — retention teams can offer 10–20% immediately
3. Switch hot water to off-peak tariff — one phone call, free change, save $100–$250/year
4. Adjust air con by 2 degrees — each degree is approximately 10% of heating/cooling costs
5. Replace halogen downlights with LED — $3–$7 each, save $80–$150/year

For the complete list of 15 proven strategies, see our electricity bill reduction guide, or for quick actions only, our 10 quick wins to lower your power bill right now.