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  2. Rising Costs Must Be Addressed after Complaints Skyrocket

Rising Costs Must Be Addressed after Complaints Skyrocket

Media Releases

State Member for Wallsend, Ms Sonia Hornery MP, is calling on the Government to do more to reduce energy prices after the release of the Energy and Water Ombudsman Annual Report showed the number of cases in Wallsend had skyrocketed.

The report showed more than 2340 cases had been raised across the Hunter and more than 480 of those cases from the Wallsend electorate. This was an increase of more than 14% on last year’s figures and a 24% increase in the last 2 years.

Of the complaints received by the Energy and Water Ombudsman, billing made up 60% of all complaints. The complaints mainly related to high or disputed accounts and an increasing problem of estimated bills.

Ms Hornery will move a Notice of Motion in Parliament today calling on the Government to urgently address these issues.

Quotes attributable to Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery

“It is no great surprise to see the number of cases with the Energy and Water Ombudsman going through the roof.”

“Power bills have increased and it has been too much for some to cope with. My office has received hundreds of complaints and some have been referred to the Ombudsman for further investigation.”

“The Government have talked up the sale of the electricity network and how it was good for the State and how it would lead to cheaper prices in NSW.”

“Some people could not afford to turn on their heater this winter as a result of this increase and as we head into summer, residents face a sweltering summer because they can’t afford the increased costs.”

“Today I will move a Notice of Motion in Parliament asking the Government to work to urgently address these issues.”

“The Government has to do more to help those that are struggling the most.”

“The solution is simple, the Government should regulate so that retailers put vulnerable customers on the best available offer.”

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