How to Set Up Electricity, Gas and Water When You Move
A practical utility setup guide for Australian moves, including responsibility checks, meter readings, connection timing, plan comparison and avoiding sales pressure.
Utilities are easy to forget until the lights, hot water or internet fail to join moving day. Start early enough to compare arrangements, but first check which services are actually your responsibility.
Energy markets and water billing differ across locations and properties. Confirm the address-specific setup with the property manager, owner and official providers before agreeing to anything.
Ask what is already connected
Find out whether the property uses electricity, gas, bottled gas, solar, an embedded network or shared services. Clarify who pays water usage and service charges under the local rules and agreement.
Do not disconnect a service simply because the previous occupant’s name appears on paperwork. Confirm the correct process first.
Record the moving dates and exact address
Use the official unit, street, suburb, state and postcode. Give providers the connection date and the date you leave the old property. Build in lead time for weekends, public holidays and appointments.
Ask whether someone must be present and whether access or safety work is required.
Compare energy plans using the same information
For areas covered by the Australian Energy Regulator, Energy Made Easy is an independent government comparison service. Victoria has its own government comparison website. Check which official service applies to your address.
Use recent bills when available, or enter household details carefully. The lowest headline discount may not produce the lowest total bill.
- Usage and supply charges
- Fixed term, exit or connection fees
- Conditional discounts and payment requirements