Tara Donnelly

Tara Donnelly is Canstar Blue’s Utilities Editor, leading the team that focuses on energy, telecommunications and consumer technology, across news, reviews and how-tos. Tara has spent more than a decade covering these topics in Australia, the US and Canada, which means she’s written about countless product launches and industry changes, including the rise of 5G, Australia’s ongoing NBN rollout, the recent years of energy price volatility and the rise of renewable energy sources. Tara also has long experience in writing within the comparison industry, giving her great insights into the information consumers want when determining which plan or device will best meet their needs, while time spent in the financial sector before turning her talent to content lets her crunch the numbers on price with ease. Tara leads the coverage of Canstar Blue’s ratings and awards for the internet and phone sectors and is an expert at advising consumers on how to use comparison tools to find the best power, internet or phone deal. Her expertise has seen her appear in national media including 9 News, 7 News, Sunrise, the ABC and The Sydney Morning Herald. Tara has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Canberra and is passionate about simplifying complex subjects so consumers aren’t just informed, they’re connected and confident.


Carbon neutral energy

Carbon neutral energy: What is it and who offers it?

Posted by November 21st 2024

Note: The contents of this article are currently under review. Please check back soon for updated information.   In this Canstar Blue guide, we explain what carbon neutral energy is and how it works. We also share …


Orange LPG gas cylinders lined up

Origin LPG: Gas Products Review & Guide

Posted by November 29th 2024

A powerhouse of the energy industry, Origin Energy has been switching on Aussie households for more than 20 years. As an integrated power company, Origin generates and sells electricity and gas, including liquified petroleum gas (LPG), …



Woman in red top holding phone on red background

Vodafone’s 5G network explained

Posted by November 19th 2024

Vodafone’s 5G mobile network rollout is underway, with coverage available now in selected suburbs. In this article Canstar Blue explores Vodafone’s 5G coverage and its selection of 5G-capable smartphones and mobile plans. Where is Vodafone 5G …


Cleaning Tips to Reduce Energy Bill

6 spring cleaning tips to reduce your summer energy bill

Posted by November 15th 2024

The weather is heating up and that means air conditioners, fans and pool pumps will soon be running in households across the country as Aussies try to escape the heat.  Unfortunately, as our cooling appliances ramp …


Energy Bill Credits

Energy bill credits explained

Posted by November 13th 2024

As new regulations change the energy industry, retailers are moving away from discounts and towards bill credits instead.


utility connection services explained

What is a utility connection service?

Posted by November 29th 2024

When applying to rent a property, you could be offered a free utility connection service. While they are convenient, what’s the true cost? Find out at Canstar Blue.


most complained about energy companies

Most complained about energy providers

Posted by November 13th 2024

What do you think of your energy company? The Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and Essential Services Commission (ESC) have revealed the number of complaints energy retailers received over the past quarter. Does your retailer make …


Row of solar panels

Solar panels not working? 6 common solar problems

Posted by November 12th 2024

In this report, Canstar Blue explores issues that can stop solar systems from fully functioning. This guide might help you identify potential causes if your solar panels are not working. Determining what causes solar systems to …


Person paying utility bill with mobile phone

What is a utility bill?

Posted by November 29th 2024

In this Canstar Blue guide we run you through some utility bill examples to help you learn what to look out for, as well as how much each bill may cost you on average. There are …