Synergy—Small business contracts
320. Hon Dr Steve Thomasto theLeader of the House representing the Minister for Energy and Decarbonisation:
I refer to the minister's answer to my question without notice 155 asked on 20 May 2025 on small business energy costs in the contestable market, in which the government refused to outline average power costs, and to reports that in the renewal of their energy contracts, small business Synergy customers have seen increases in total costs of up to 40% on their previous contracts.
What has been the highest and average percentage increase in contracted costs for the businesses that have negotiated market contracts and are not on a regulated tariff under the R1, L1, R3 and L3 tariffs in:
(1) 2021–22;
(2) 2022–23;
(3) 2023–24; and
(4) 2024–25 to date?
Hon Stephen Dawson replied:
I thank the honourable member for some notice of the question.
According to the Economic Regulation Authority in the Energy retailers and distributors 2024: Annual data report, there are currently 13 energy retailers within the South West Interconnected System, or SWIS. These retailers are not required to provide advice to government on the details of the contracts they enter into with third parties. Therefore, the government is unable to provide the information requested.
