Post by Australian Energy Regulator

Towards the end of last year, we submitted 5 rule changes to the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) that are designed to strengthen payment difficulty protections for customers. Now the AEMC, who sets the rules in Australia's energy system, is consulting on our rule change proposals, starting with one called ‘Streamlining payment difficulty protections’, which covers our proposals on: 1. Simplifying the eligibility framework for payment difficulty protections  2. Improving payment assistance information  3. Strengthening minimum disconnection protections  4. Clarifying disconnection protections These four proposals have been consolidated into a single rule change process and fast-tracked, reflecting the extensive consultation we've already undertaken through our Review of payment difficulty protections during 2024 and 2025. The AEMC has also released a consultation paper on our fifth rule change request that would prevent retailers from requiring customers to provide documentary proof of their financial circumstances before receiving assistance or access to payment plans. This proposal is being progressed separately through the standard rule-making process. Stakeholder feedback is welcomed on both consultations, with submissions due by 30 July 2026. For more information on these rule changes, visit https://lnkd.in/eUNne-Ft