Switching gas providers
In this Canstar Blue guide, we discuss the ins and outs of switching natural gas suppliers in Australia.
Changing utility providers can be a juggling act. You’ll of course want to make sure the switch is seamless and that you’re not left without a gas supply during the changeover from one supplier to another. Read on to find out what you need to do to change suppliers and the steps you can take to ensure it goes off without a hitch.
How to switch natural gas providers
Switching gas suppliers is generally a straightforward process. Here’s a step by step guide :
- Contact the new gas supplier you have chosen and ask to switch your service to them.
- Your new gas provider will send a request to the network distributor on your behalf. The network distributor owns, operates and maintains the gas pipelines.
- This request will be also be sent to your current gas provider
- After your final meter read, the new gas supplier will take over your property’s account
- You will receive your final bill from your old gas supplier
Your new gas supplier will need your usage requirements, supply address, banking details and Delivery Point Identifier (your meter number) in order to complete the switch. Your meter number can be found at the top of your gas bill or on your meter.
What to look out for when changing gas suppliers
Before choosing a new gas supplier, think about which features are most important to you.
- Supply charges: Gas supply rates reflect the cost of supplying gas to a home – either via natural gas lines or the delivery of LPG cylinders. Supply charges are generally the fixed price component of a gas bill.
- Usage charges: Some gas suppliers have set usage rates for all gas consumption, while others may charge gas usage in ‘block rates’, meaning prices will change depending on how much gas is used.
- Hidden fees: Some gas suppliers may have ‘hidden fees’ tied to plans, such as a connection fee, credit card surcharge, late payment fees or a paper billing charge. Always read the fine print before selecting a plan.
- Customer satisfaction: A feature often overlooked is the level of service customers receive from their gas supplier. Whether it’s having longer call centre hours or next day LPG delivery, customer service and value for money are worth thinking about.
- Location: Your postcode can have a major impact on the price you pay for gas. You should consider the difference in supply and running costs between both natural gas and LPG, particularly for those in regional areas or who have lower gas usage needs.
- Incentives: Incentives are a great way for gas providers to compete for business. It could be a discount, a sign-up offer or a voucher. Some providers offer a larger discount for bundling electricity and gas.
Read more: What’s cheaper: Electricity or gas?
Can I change gas providers in my state?
Most customers in Australia should be able to change natural gas suppliers. The availability of natural gas will depend on a home’s location and whether or not the area is serviced by the gas mains – the underground pipes that supply gas to households. If you’re living in a regional area you may not have the option to switch suppliers.
For LPG, customers will be able to switch suppliers, so long as there are companies servicing their area. Similar to natural gas, customers in regional parts of the country may have limited choice.
Which retailers offer gas?
Here is a list of natural gas retailers in Australia. Keep in mind that not all of these companies operate in all areas of Australia. Please refer to each retailer’s website for further details.
- ActewAGL
- AGL
- Alinta Energy
- CovaU
- Dodo
- EnergyAustralia
- GloBird Energy
- Kleenheat
- Kogan Energy
- Lumo Energy
- Momentum Energy
- Origin Energy
- Powershop
- Red Energy
- Simply Energy
- Sumo
- Tango Energy
Compare natural gas plans in your state
Here are some of the cheapest gas deals on our database for NSW. These estimated annual costs are based on the Jemena Gas Network in Sydney and yearly gas usage of 18,800 MJ/year, but prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest estimated cost. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Canstar Blue may earn a fee from its Online Partners for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship or promotion of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship or promotion may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship/promotion fees may be higher than referral fees. If a product is sponsored or promoted, it is an ad and it is clearly marked as such. An ad might appear in different places on our website, such as in comparison tables and articles. Ads may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product’s rating, price or other attributes. The location of an ad doesn’t indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar Blue. Payment of fees for ads does not influence Value Rank or Customer Satisfaction Ratings. See How We Get Paid to find out more.
General Disclosure – Energy
The data in the table is updated within 24 hours of Canstar Blue becoming aware of a change. You can find a description of the initial sort order below the table. You can use the sort buttons at the top of each column to re-order the display. Learn more about our Gas Value Rank Methodology.
Please note that the Satisfaction Rating displayed in the table is a rating relating to customers’ overall satisfaction with the brand. It should not be confused with an individual product rating. Learn more about Brand Satisfaction ratings and for more information on how the Brand Satisfaction ratings are calculated, read the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers Methodology.
The results do not include all energy retailers or products in the market and may not compare all features relevant to you. Canstar Blue does not supply electricity or gas services. If you decide to apply for a particular energy product, you will deal directly with the retailer, not with Canstar Blue. Fees, charges, product information and contract terms should be confirmed directly with the relevant retailer.
Some plans may require you to meet certain conditions before a discount may become available to you. Check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all possible discounts that may apply and any conditions that need to be met for you to be eligible for these discounts.
Check your current plan’s exit fees and other termination provisions before changing providers.
Some plans may have a minimum term that is longer than one year. In that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated Price, which is for one year only. Consider the provider’s detailed product and pricing information before making a decision to take out a new plan or switch electricity providers.
Pricing Information
The price shown is inclusive of GST and is the estimated lowest possible price a representative customer would be charged in a year for each plan, assuming all conditions of discounts offered, if any, have been met. Gas usage assumptions have been derived from the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table.
The general usage assumptions for products displayed in the table have been derived from:
- the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table. The figures provided are intended to serve as general estimates and should be used for information only. If the amount of gas you actually use differs greatly from this estimate, your bill could be significantly larger or smaller than the estimated price/year listed for each plan; or
- if you have provided usage data from your gas bill, the estimated annual amount payable for this plan is based on your individual circumstances.
The estimated yearly Price is based on single rate tariffs, which is when a flat usage rate is charged for ‘blocks’ of gas consumed and could be a limited amount per day, month, quarter, which may include a second block with a different usage rate applied, or, season.
Some plans may have a minimum term longer than one year – in that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated yearly Price (which is only for one year).
Some plans may apply additional charges to the price shown. Always check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all charges that may apply.
What does the ‘phone’ mean?
By clicking on the number next to the phone icon, you will leave the Canstar Blue website and be connected with the call centre of the Online Partner’s brand that you have selected. You will be subject to that referral partner’s brand privacy policy and terms of use. You agree that Canstar Blue Referral Terms apply to this referral.
Here are some of the cheapest gas deals on our database for VIC. These estimated annual costs are based on the AGN – VIC network in Melbourne and yearly gas usage of 40,500 MJ/year, but prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest estimated cost. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Canstar Blue may earn a fee from its Online Partners for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship or promotion of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship or promotion may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship/promotion fees may be higher than referral fees. If a product is sponsored or promoted, it is an ad and it is clearly marked as such. An ad might appear in different places on our website, such as in comparison tables and articles. Ads may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product’s rating, price or other attributes. The location of an ad doesn’t indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar Blue. Payment of fees for ads does not influence Value Rank or Customer Satisfaction Ratings. See How We Get Paid to find out more.
General Disclosure – Energy
The data in the table is updated within 24 hours of Canstar Blue becoming aware of a change. You can find a description of the initial sort order below the table. You can use the sort buttons at the top of each column to re-order the display. Learn more about our Gas Value Rank Methodology.
Please note that the Satisfaction Rating displayed in the table is a rating relating to customers’ overall satisfaction with the brand. It should not be confused with an individual product rating. Learn more about Brand Satisfaction ratings and for more information on how the Brand Satisfaction ratings are calculated, read the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers Methodology.
The results do not include all energy retailers or products in the market and may not compare all features relevant to you. Canstar Blue does not supply electricity or gas services. If you decide to apply for a particular energy product, you will deal directly with the retailer, not with Canstar Blue. Fees, charges, product information and contract terms should be confirmed directly with the relevant retailer.
Some plans may require you to meet certain conditions before a discount may become available to you. Check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all possible discounts that may apply and any conditions that need to be met for you to be eligible for these discounts.
Check your current plan’s exit fees and other termination provisions before changing providers.
Some plans may have a minimum term that is longer than one year. In that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated Price, which is for one year only. Consider the provider’s detailed product and pricing information before making a decision to take out a new plan or switch electricity providers.
Pricing Information
The price shown is inclusive of GST and is the estimated lowest possible price a representative customer would be charged in a year for each plan, assuming all conditions of discounts offered, if any, have been met. Gas usage assumptions have been derived from the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table.
The general usage assumptions for products displayed in the table have been derived from:
- the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table. The figures provided are intended to serve as general estimates and should be used for information only. If the amount of gas you actually use differs greatly from this estimate, your bill could be significantly larger or smaller than the estimated price/year listed for each plan; or
- if you have provided usage data from your gas bill, the estimated annual amount payable for this plan is based on your individual circumstances.
The estimated yearly Price is based on single rate tariffs, which is when a flat usage rate is charged for ‘blocks’ of gas consumed and could be a limited amount per day, month, quarter, which may include a second block with a different usage rate applied, or, season.
Some plans may have a minimum term longer than one year – in that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated yearly Price (which is only for one year).
Some plans may apply additional charges to the price shown. Always check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all charges that may apply.
What does the ‘phone’ mean?
By clicking on the number next to the phone icon, you will leave the Canstar Blue website and be connected with the call centre of the Online Partner’s brand that you have selected. You will be subject to that referral partner’s brand privacy policy and terms of use. You agree that Canstar Blue Referral Terms apply to this referral.
Here are some of the cheapest gas deals on our database for QLD. These estimated annual costs are based on the AGN – QLD in Brisbane and yearly gas usage of 8,300 MJ/year, but prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest estimated cost. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Canstar Blue may earn a fee from its Online Partners for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship or promotion of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship or promotion may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship/promotion fees may be higher than referral fees. If a product is sponsored or promoted, it is an ad and it is clearly marked as such. An ad might appear in different places on our website, such as in comparison tables and articles. Ads may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product’s rating, price or other attributes. The location of an ad doesn’t indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar Blue. Payment of fees for ads does not influence Value Rank or Customer Satisfaction Ratings. See How We Get Paid to find out more.
General Disclosure – Energy
The data in the table is updated within 24 hours of Canstar Blue becoming aware of a change. You can find a description of the initial sort order below the table. You can use the sort buttons at the top of each column to re-order the display. Learn more about our Gas Value Rank Methodology.
Please note that the Satisfaction Rating displayed in the table is a rating relating to customers’ overall satisfaction with the brand. It should not be confused with an individual product rating. Learn more about Brand Satisfaction ratings and for more information on how the Brand Satisfaction ratings are calculated, read the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers Methodology.
The results do not include all energy retailers or products in the market and may not compare all features relevant to you. Canstar Blue does not supply electricity or gas services. If you decide to apply for a particular energy product, you will deal directly with the retailer, not with Canstar Blue. Fees, charges, product information and contract terms should be confirmed directly with the relevant retailer.
Some plans may require you to meet certain conditions before a discount may become available to you. Check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all possible discounts that may apply and any conditions that need to be met for you to be eligible for these discounts.
Check your current plan’s exit fees and other termination provisions before changing providers.
Some plans may have a minimum term that is longer than one year. In that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated Price, which is for one year only. Consider the provider’s detailed product and pricing information before making a decision to take out a new plan or switch electricity providers.
Pricing Information
The price shown is inclusive of GST and is the estimated lowest possible price a representative customer would be charged in a year for each plan, assuming all conditions of discounts offered, if any, have been met. Gas usage assumptions have been derived from the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table.
The general usage assumptions for products displayed in the table have been derived from:
- the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table. The figures provided are intended to serve as general estimates and should be used for information only. If the amount of gas you actually use differs greatly from this estimate, your bill could be significantly larger or smaller than the estimated price/year listed for each plan; or
- if you have provided usage data from your gas bill, the estimated annual amount payable for this plan is based on your individual circumstances.
The estimated yearly Price is based on single rate tariffs, which is when a flat usage rate is charged for ‘blocks’ of gas consumed and could be a limited amount per day, month, quarter, which may include a second block with a different usage rate applied, or, season.
Some plans may have a minimum term longer than one year – in that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated yearly Price (which is only for one year).
Some plans may apply additional charges to the price shown. Always check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all charges that may apply.
What does the ‘phone’ mean?
By clicking on the number next to the phone icon, you will leave the Canstar Blue website and be connected with the call centre of the Online Partner’s brand that you have selected. You will be subject to that referral partner’s brand privacy policy and terms of use. You agree that Canstar Blue Referral Terms apply to this referral.
Here are some of the cheapest gas deals on our database for SA. These estimated annual costs are based on the AGN – SA network in Adelaide and yearly gas usage of 14,800 MJ/year, but prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest estimated cost. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Canstar Blue may earn a fee from its Online Partners for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship or promotion of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship or promotion may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship/promotion fees may be higher than referral fees. If a product is sponsored or promoted, it is an ad and it is clearly marked as such. An ad might appear in different places on our website, such as in comparison tables and articles. Ads may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product’s rating, price or other attributes. The location of an ad doesn’t indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar Blue. Payment of fees for ads does not influence Value Rank or Customer Satisfaction Ratings. See How We Get Paid to find out more.
General Disclosure – Energy
The data in the table is updated within 24 hours of Canstar Blue becoming aware of a change. You can find a description of the initial sort order below the table. You can use the sort buttons at the top of each column to re-order the display. Learn more about our Gas Value Rank Methodology.
Please note that the Satisfaction Rating displayed in the table is a rating relating to customers’ overall satisfaction with the brand. It should not be confused with an individual product rating. Learn more about Brand Satisfaction ratings and for more information on how the Brand Satisfaction ratings are calculated, read the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers Methodology.
The results do not include all energy retailers or products in the market and may not compare all features relevant to you. Canstar Blue does not supply electricity or gas services. If you decide to apply for a particular energy product, you will deal directly with the retailer, not with Canstar Blue. Fees, charges, product information and contract terms should be confirmed directly with the relevant retailer.
Some plans may require you to meet certain conditions before a discount may become available to you. Check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all possible discounts that may apply and any conditions that need to be met for you to be eligible for these discounts.
Check your current plan’s exit fees and other termination provisions before changing providers.
Some plans may have a minimum term that is longer than one year. In that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated Price, which is for one year only. Consider the provider’s detailed product and pricing information before making a decision to take out a new plan or switch electricity providers.
Pricing Information
The price shown is inclusive of GST and is the estimated lowest possible price a representative customer would be charged in a year for each plan, assuming all conditions of discounts offered, if any, have been met. Gas usage assumptions have been derived from the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table.
The general usage assumptions for products displayed in the table have been derived from:
- the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table. The figures provided are intended to serve as general estimates and should be used for information only. If the amount of gas you actually use differs greatly from this estimate, your bill could be significantly larger or smaller than the estimated price/year listed for each plan; or
- if you have provided usage data from your gas bill, the estimated annual amount payable for this plan is based on your individual circumstances.
The estimated yearly Price is based on single rate tariffs, which is when a flat usage rate is charged for ‘blocks’ of gas consumed and could be a limited amount per day, month, quarter, which may include a second block with a different usage rate applied, or, season.
Some plans may have a minimum term longer than one year – in that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated yearly Price (which is only for one year).
Some plans may apply additional charges to the price shown. Always check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all charges that may apply.
What does the ‘phone’ mean?
By clicking on the number next to the phone icon, you will leave the Canstar Blue website and be connected with the call centre of the Online Partner’s brand that you have selected. You will be subject to that referral partner’s brand privacy policy and terms of use. You agree that Canstar Blue Referral Terms apply to this referral.
Here are some of the cheapest gas deals on our database for WA. These estimated annual costs are based on the ATCO network in Perth and yearly gas usage of 6,300 units/year, but prices will vary depending on your own circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest estimated cost. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Advertiser Disclosure
Canstar Blue may earn a fee from its Online Partners for referrals from its website tables, and from sponsorship or promotion of certain products. Fees payable by product providers for referrals and sponsorship or promotion may vary between providers, website position, and revenue model. Sponsorship/promotion fees may be higher than referral fees. If a product is sponsored or promoted, it is an ad and it is clearly marked as such. An ad might appear in different places on our website, such as in comparison tables and articles. Ads may be displayed in a fixed position in a table, regardless of the product’s rating, price or other attributes. The location of an ad doesn’t indicate any ranking or rating by Canstar Blue. Payment of fees for ads does not influence Value Rank or Customer Satisfaction Ratings. See How We Get Paid to find out more.
General Disclosure – Energy
The data in the table is updated within 24 hours of Canstar Blue becoming aware of a change. You can find a description of the initial sort order below the table. You can use the sort buttons at the top of each column to re-order the display. Learn more about our Gas Value Rank Methodology.
Please note that the Satisfaction Rating displayed in the table is a rating relating to customers’ overall satisfaction with the brand. It should not be confused with an individual product rating. Learn more about Brand Satisfaction ratings and for more information on how the Brand Satisfaction ratings are calculated, read the Canstar Blue Most Satisfied Customers Methodology.
The results do not include all energy retailers or products in the market and may not compare all features relevant to you. Canstar Blue does not supply electricity or gas services. If you decide to apply for a particular energy product, you will deal directly with the retailer, not with Canstar Blue. Fees, charges, product information and contract terms should be confirmed directly with the relevant retailer.
Some plans may require you to meet certain conditions before a discount may become available to you. Check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all possible discounts that may apply and any conditions that need to be met for you to be eligible for these discounts.
Check your current plan’s exit fees and other termination provisions before changing providers.
Some plans may have a minimum term that is longer than one year. In that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated Price, which is for one year only. Consider the provider’s detailed product and pricing information before making a decision to take out a new plan or switch electricity providers.
Pricing Information
The price shown is inclusive of GST and is the estimated lowest possible price a representative customer would be charged in a year for each plan, assuming all conditions of discounts offered, if any, have been met. Gas usage assumptions have been derived from the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table.
The general usage assumptions for products displayed in the table have been derived from:
- the average usages advertised by a selection of retailers in the distribution region as shown at the top of the table. The figures provided are intended to serve as general estimates and should be used for information only. If the amount of gas you actually use differs greatly from this estimate, your bill could be significantly larger or smaller than the estimated price/year listed for each plan; or
- if you have provided usage data from your gas bill, the estimated annual amount payable for this plan is based on your individual circumstances.
The estimated yearly Price is based on single rate tariffs, which is when a flat usage rate is charged for ‘blocks’ of gas consumed and could be a limited amount per day, month, quarter, which may include a second block with a different usage rate applied, or, season.
Some plans may have a minimum term longer than one year – in that case the total cost over the term will be much higher than the estimated yearly Price (which is only for one year).
Some plans may apply additional charges to the price shown. Always check the energy provider’s plan information for details of all charges that may apply.
What does the ‘phone’ mean?
By clicking on the number next to the phone icon, you will leave the Canstar Blue website and be connected with the call centre of the Online Partner’s brand that you have selected. You will be subject to that referral partner’s brand privacy policy and terms of use. You agree that Canstar Blue Referral Terms apply to this referral.
LPG suppliers in Australia
LPG is accessible across most of Australia. However, many LPG suppliers will only service local areas. A few larger companies – such as Origin and Elgas – still deliver LPG nationwide. Here are some LPG suppliers in Australia:
See the best-rated gas suppliers in Australia:
Can you change gas suppliers if you owe money?
Like an electricity account, customers will need to settle any outstanding bills with their existing gas supplier before switching. Depending on the retailer, a credit check may be carried out by the new gas provider to determine the level of risk before taking you on as a customer. However, some smaller companies may not require this. For everything you need to know about switching energy providers in debt, read our guide.
You can check your credit score for free here
How long does it take to switch gas suppliers?
The time it takes to change gas suppliers will depend on when your home’s last gas meter reading was carried out. If you are billed every quarter it can take anywhere between a few days to a couple of months. You will usually find the date of your next meter reading on your most recent gas bill.
Is there a cooling-off period when switching gas?
Yes, like an electricity account, customers who switch gas suppliers have a 10-day cooling off period. This means if you change your mind about your new gas provider you’ll have 10 business days from the agreement date to cancel the contract. Terminating your contract after this period may result in exit fees.
Will it cost money to change gas companies?
Customers should consider connection, disconnection and exit fees before switching gas providers. All gas retailers are required by law to publish an energy price fact sheet for each of their plans, meaning every fee and charge will be listed within this document. Make sure to read this document carefully before you switch.
Will there be an interruption to my gas supply?
There shouldn’t be any interruption to your natural gas supply when changing retailers. The gas supplied to your home all comes from the same gas mains network, meaning once your final meter reading has taken place, it’s as simple as the new gas provider taking over your account.
Can you save by switching gas suppliers?
According to a 2023 Canstar Blue survey, 57% of respondents who had switched natural gas providers in the last two years said it proved to be a good financial decision to do so. With incentives such as no-lock-in contracts, no exit fees, discounts and sign-up offers, gas retailers are making switching an enticing option.
If you’re not willing to switch just yet however, there are other avenues you can take to pay less, such as contacting your retailer and asking for a better deal. If all else fails, don’t forget to do your homework and shop around for the most competitive deals in your area. To get started be sure to head to our free natural gas comparison tool below.
Original reporting by Kelseigh Wrigley
Image Source: marketlan/Shutterstock
This article was reviewed by our Energy Content Producer Katrina Hasdell before it was updated, as part of our fact-checking process.
- How to switch natural gas providers
- What to look out for when changing gas suppliers
- Can I change gas providers in my state?
- Which retailers offer gas?
- Can you change gas suppliers if you owe money?
- How long does it take to switch gas suppliers?
- Will it cost money to change gas companies?
- Can you save by switching gas suppliers?