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Help for recently-arrived migrants, Indigenous and vulnerable energy consumers will be on the agenda when Energy Ombudsman, Barry Adams, visits Cairns on Wednesday [13 May].
Mr Adams said Energy Ombudsman Queensland (EOQ) provided free and independent assistance for Queensland's residential and small business energy consumers unable to resolve disputes with their energy retailer.
"So far this financial year, EOQ has assisted 11,184 Queenslanders resolve disputes with their energy retailer - a 111 per cent increase for the same period last year," he said.
"Last financial year, we helped 570 people in the North Queensland region.
"The most common issues for North Queensland residents were disconnections, account payment difficulty, extending supply connections to their property, high and disputed accounts, and fees and charges on their accounts.
Mr Adams will meet with local Members of Parliament, Ergon Energy, Migrant Settlement Services and Indigenous Consumer Assistance Network to promote EOQ and discuss the energy issues facing local residents.
"Many people just can't afford legal assistance to resolve disputes however EOQ provides free, fair and independent help and we want to make sure people who require help know where to turn to," he said.
People with individual issues should contact Ergon Energy first to try to resolve the problem.
"Ergon Energy has processes in place to assist customers experiencing payment difficulties and other issues you may have," Mr Adams said.
"However, if you're unhappy with the outcome, contact EOQ's North Queensland Regional office on free call 1800 662 837, email complaints@eoq.com.au or you can visit us at Level 1, Cairns Corporate Tower, 15 Lake Street, Cairns.
"There are a number of options we can look at to help you - all for free."
Media contact:
Natasha Geritz on 3006 2676 or media@eoq.com.au
Issued 11 May 2009
