Fixed benefit periods notification obligations

The Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback on the Essential Services Commission’s proposed amendments to the Energy Retail Code.

These amendments would ensure Victorian energy customers are notified about changes to, or the expiry of, a fixed benefit period under an electricity or gas contract.

Benefit periods are limited periods within a contract term during which a particular benefit applies, such as a discount. Ongoing contracts with limited benefit periods are becoming increasingly common in Victoria.

VCOSS supports the ESC’s proposed amendments, which would be consistent with the rule change determined by the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) on 7 November 2017 (applying to the other National Electricity Market jurisdictions).