The first thing you need to do is contact your supplier and let them know you will struggle to pay the bill. They will work with you to find a solution. They may be able to offer you things like extensions to your due date, payment plan options, and even 'bill smoothing' options that allow you to pay a manageable amount each fortnight for a set time (6-12 months)

1. You can ask your energy provider to bill you each month rather than quarterly, this will mean you can pay smaller amounts more regularly.
2. You could set up a Centrepay deduction to come out of your Centrelink payment each fortnight.
3. You could also set up a direct deposit from your bank account each fortnight, but beware of bank charges if you do not have funds available, you may be charged overdrawn fees.
4. Talk to your supplier about your regular usage, and how much you would need to pay each fortnight to cover this.

For energy saving tips visit Energy Saver. Remember that heating and cooling often consume the most electricity, ensure you are stopping heat escaping in the winter, pull the curtains early to help keep the house warm, in the summer open windows and doors when there is a cool morning breeze, but close the house up as the hot summer sun hits windows and doors. Ensure the thermostat is set to 22-23 degrees.

Anglicare are able to provide utility assistance for NSW Gas and Electricity accounts, Sydney Water & Telstra. Workers will assess your situation, advocate on your behalf with the utility provider, arrange financial assistance, and ensure you have a sustainable plan for covering your ongoing usage payments.

Check your eligibility using our interactive Get Help tool.

• Most NSW Electricity and Gas providers
• Sydney Water
• Telstra

Check your eligibility using our interactive Get Help tool.

Check your eligibility using our interactive Get Help tool.

Yes, your account does need to be open and active.

Yes, your name does need to be on the bill to receive assistance.

Most assistance is paid by vouchers that are sent to the supplier on your behalf or credits that are applied directly to your account. This assistance is not provided in cash.

No, assistance is available for anyone on a low income who is experiencing financial hardship.

Check your eligibility using our interactive Get Help tool.

We are sometimes able to do assessments over the phone. You can talk to an Anglicare employee to discuss your needs.