Keeping your business running smoothly means watching your overheads closely, as energy bills are often a major cost. Whether you’re managing a cosy café in Melbourne or a small online business from home in Brisbane, finding the right electricity and gas deal matters more than ever.
In Australia, electricity and gas markets are deregulated in most areas, which means businesses can choose their provider and plan. But with so many options available, knowing where to start and what works for your business can feel overwhelming.
In summary
- Business energy eligibility: If you’ve got an ABN or run a registered business, even from home, you may qualify for business energy deals.
- Who has the cheapest business energy rates: Rates vary, so compare on Victoria Energy Compare or Energy Made Easy to find the best plan for your area. Every business uses energy differently, so understanding your needs helps you find a plan that fits, and don’t forget, good customer service matters, too.
- Average business electricity bill: SMEs using ~20,000 kWh/year pay around $6,855 in VIC, $7,625 in QLD, and $8,238 in NSW.
- Average business gas bill: Small businesses using 100 GJ/year pay around $3,270, $5,125, depending on the state.
Who is eligible for business energy deals?
You don’t need to run a big operation to qualify as a business energy customer. Many small businesses and sole traders in Australia, even those operating from home, are eligible for business electricity deals.
You may be considered a business customer if:
- You operate under an ABN (Australian Business Number)
- Your business is registered, including sole traders and partnerships.
- You’ve requested a business plan or received a commercial energy bill.
- Your energy use is higher or more consistent than in a typical household.
Common examples include:
- Salons, cafés, bakeries, and restaurants
- Medical clinics and professional offices
- Small workshops, warehouses, or light manufacturing
- Home-based businesses using commercial-grade equipment
Who has the cheapest business electricity rates?
Business electricity rates can vary depending on location, usage, and contract terms. To find the best deal for your specific needs, it’s recommended to use official government comparison tools.
The Victoria Energy Compare provides an easy way to compare offers based on your business details for Victorian businesses.
Businesses in other states can use Energy Made Easy to explore plans and find competitive rates.
By entering your postcode and energy usage or bill details, you can identify plans that suit your requirements, helping you make an informed choice without guesswork.
To find the most cost-effective deal for your business, comparing plans using official, government-run comparison websites is best.
Tips for comparing business electricity deals:
- Upload a recent bill for a more accurate comparison
- If you don’t have one, an estimate based on NMI/MIRN and postcode
- Check daily supply charges and peak/off-peak rates
- Watch out for contract terms, exit fees or minimum usage conditions
What is the average electricity bill for a small business in Australia?
The average electricity bill for small and medium-sized businesses (SMEs) in Australia varies depending on location, business type, and how much energy is used.
Most small businesses using between 5,000 to 40,000 kWh annually can expect average bills of $995 quarterly.
Here’s a quick overview by state (Energy Consumers Australia) on average annual electricity bills for small businesses (SMEs) using 20,000 kWh per year on a single rate tariff:
State | Average Annual Electricity Bill (20,000 kWh per year) |
| New South Wales (NSW) | $8,238 |
| Victoria (VIC) | $6,855 |
| Queensland (QLD) | $7,625 |
Note: These figures are general estimates (for reference only) and intended as a guide. Your actual bill may differ based on your tariff, usage patterns, equipment load, and contract terms.
For a more tailored view, it’s best to use a recent bill and compare tools.
What’s the Average Commercial Gas Bill?
Based on the Energy Consumers Australia Small and Medium Enterprise (SME) Retail Tariff Tracker (June 2024), here is the average annual business gas bill for small businesses (100 GJ/year consumption) in VIC, NSW, and QLD.
State | Average Annual Gas Bill (100 GJ/year) |
| New South Wales (NSW) | $3,565 |
| Victoria (VIC) | $3,270 – $3,630 |
| Queensland (QLD) | $4,625 – $5,125 |
Suppose gas is a major part of your operations, like heating, cooking, or hot water. In that case, it's worth reviewing your current plan and checking whether a business energy plan could offer better value.
Navigating commercial energy rates doesn’t have to be complicated. You can take charge of your business electricity and gas bills by understanding your usage patterns, knowing what to look for in a plan, and using trusted government comparison tools.
Whether you're a growing café, a busy salon, or a home-based creative studio, finding the right business energy plan can lead to real savings. The key is to compare regularly, stay across your contract terms, and don’t hesitate to switch if you find a better deal.
Looking for business electricity deals in Australia that fit your needs? Pop your postal code below now.
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