Frequently asked questions
Everything you need to know about comparing and switching electricity plans with BillBetter.
About BillBetter
What is BillBetter?
BillBetter is a free, independent electricity plan comparison tool for Australian households. Enter your postcode and we show you more competitive plans from available retailers — instantly.
Is BillBetter free to use?
Yes. You never pay us anything. If you switch to a new plan through our site, the retailer pays us a small commission. This doesn't affect the prices you see — we show the same rates you'd find on the retailer's own website.
Which states does BillBetter cover?
Currently available in NSW, ACT, SA, VIC, parts of QLD, TAS & WA (gas only). Not available in Ergon area (QLD), NT, embedded networks, or non-quotable meters. We're working to expand coverage over time.
Are you affiliated with any retailer?
No. We are completely independent. We do not receive payments from any retailer to feature their plans more prominently. Plans are ranked by estimated savings for your specific usage.
Do you compare gas plans?
Not yet. Electricity only for now. Gas comparison is on our roadmap.
Finding plans
What do I need to compare plans?
Just your postcode. Enter it on our homepage and we'll show you plans from available retailers instantly.
Can I compare plans for a rental property?
Yes. It doesn't matter whether you're an owner or a renter — if you're the one paying the electricity bill, you can switch.
Can I use BillBetter if I have solar?
Yes. Our comparison partner shows plans with solar feed-in tariff rates where available, so you can factor that into your decision.
Privacy and data
Do you store my details?
No. Your postcode is used only to find plans from available retailers. We don't store it or share it with anyone. Personal details are only required if you choose to proceed with a switch through our partner.
What data do you actually keep?
We don't store personal data. Your postcode is used in real time to find plans and is not saved. We never keep your name, email, phone number, or account details.
Do you sell my data?
Never. Our business model is referral commissions from retailers — we have no incentive to sell data. Read our full Privacy Policy for details.
Savings estimates
How accurate are the savings estimates?
Very accurate. Plans and pricing come directly from our comparison partner CIMET, who source live rates from available retailers. The plans you see are the actual plans for your postcode.
How are plans ranked?
Plans are shown based on pricing. We never rank plans by commission — you always see the right deal first.
Switching plans
How do I actually switch plans?
Click 'Switch now' on any plan result. You'll be taken to our switching partner to complete the process — they'll guide you through the sign-up, which typically takes 5–10 minutes. Your power is never disconnected during a switch.
How long does a switch take?
The paperwork is usually 5–10 minutes. The actual switch at your meter happens within 2–3 business days. Your first bill from the new retailer will typically arrive in 6–10 weeks.
Is there a fee for switching?
Check your current plan for exit fees before switching. Most standard market offers in Australia have no exit fees, but some plans with fixed rates do.
Will switching cut my power off?
No. When you switch electricity retailers, you stay on the same physical network. Your power stays on throughout the switch. Your new retailer handles all the administrative transfer. It typically takes 1–5 business days.
Do I need to contact my current retailer?
In most cases, no. Your new retailer arranges the switch on your behalf. You'll receive a final bill from your current retailer covering the period up to the switch date.
Energy terms
What is a NMI?
A NMI (National Metering Identifier) is a unique 10-digit number that identifies your electricity connection point. It appears on your electricity bill and is used by retailers when setting up your account. You can find it near the meter details section of your bill.
What is the difference between flat rate and time of use?
A flat-rate tariff charges you the same amount per kWh regardless of when you use electricity. A time-of-use (TOU) tariff charges different rates for peak times (typically weekday afternoons and evenings), off-peak times (overnight), and shoulder times (other times). TOU can save you money if you can shift usage to off-peak hours.