Clarence Valley residents are invited to a Bring Your Bills Day next week.
Hosted by the Energy and Water Ombudsman NSW (EWON), the event is a free and fair dispute resolution service aimed at providing assistance to customers who are experiencing unresolved issues with their energy or water provider.
Locals who are having difficulties with increased energy prices amidst the cost-of-living crisis will be able to seek advice about managing their bills, saving energy, and dealing with providers.
There will also be a range of government and community organisations on hand to help.
Between 2022 and 2023, EWON reported an increase of 32 percent in the number of complaints from customers in the Corrs Harbour and Grafton areas, and 65 percent of all complaint received related to issues regarding billing or problems with rebates and concessions.
Janine Young said these regions are regularly subject to extreme weather conditions, and throughout the previous 12 months, cost of living pressures and increased energy prices.
“This could result in customers ending up with high energy debt,” she explained.
“We’re bringing our staff directly to locals to offer advice about managing bills, saving energy, and dealing with providers.
“We’re there to confidentially listen to peoples concerns, review bills, and work with locals to resolve any issues they may have.”
Ms Young said the event will be provide plenty of advice, support, and information to participants, and various community and government agencies and energy retailers who can also offer direct assistance to customers will also be in attendance.
“There will also be support and advice for seniors and carers including about legal and financial issues, tenancy rights and community and social services,” she said.
Customers are encouraged to bring along current and past energy bills, letters from retailers, Centrelink Health Cards, and any other concession cards.
Bring Your Bills Day will be held at the New School of Arts Neighbourhood House in South Grafton on April 11 between 11am and 4pm.