Making sure that your family is always ahead, taking into account rising electricity prices, other expenses for utilities, council rates and other considerations, can be a stressful exercise.

However, Queenslanders may be able to look forward to a reduction in household expenses, as the Newman government has pledged to make good on its election promise of less financial pressure on families.

The Cost Of Living Bill was approved this week (May 14) as part of the government's aim to reduce the impact of electricity, car registration, stamp duty and transport fares. 

Premier Campbell Newman said that the bill would help to boost the confidence of Queenslanders and would contribute toward his election promise to help average households save up to $330 per year.

"This is just the start of savings we’re working on to address the cost of living," he asserted.

The government's commitment to reduce household expenses include freezing standard domestic electricity tariffs, capping family car registration charges, halving scheduled public transport fare increases and reintroducing stamp duty concessions for the principal place of residence.

Posted by Charlie Moore

A charging station for electric cars was unveiled in Melbourne yesterday (May 16) outside Holden's Port Melbourne headquarters - it runs on certified green energy and the federal minister of energy efficiency, Greg Combet, said this took the industry one step closer to a low-carbon future.

The Volt is based on an energy saving system that utilises electricity generated by petrol, which means that efficiency is optimised - essentially the purchase price can be offset by a reduction in running expenses.

For households this can mean that even though gas prices and other household costs may impact on your budget, the amount you spend on fuel is more manageable.

Mr Combet emphasised the role that energy efficiency can play in the reduction of the country's carbon footprint.

"Transport accounts for 15 per cent of Australia's annual greenhouse gas emissions. That means more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly vehicles will play an important role in moving to a low-pollution future," he explained.

Posted by Callum Fleming

The impact of electricity prices and other energy costs can sometimes be difficult to avoid depending on what work is being undertaken but there are ways that building sustainably can work.

The federal government is looking to support green construction and design and is releasing its Draft National Building Energy Standard-Setting, Assessment and Rating Framework for public comment.

The submission period will end on June 6 and until then comments are being welcomed from all industry stakeholders.

States and territories in partnership with the federal government have committed to developing a framework that "works towards consistent approaches in how buildings are assessed and rated for energy efficiency and sets a pathway for increasing minimum energy performance standards for new buildings over time".

Supporting consultancy reports have also been released in conjunction with the draft framework and can be viewed by those who wish to comment on the document.

Posted by Charlie Moore

With increased competition comes the need for energy retailers to make their deals better and the individual elements they offer - like bundling and rebates - more attractive to prospective customers.

This is a situation that the government of Tasmania is reflecting in the electricity retail industry reforms announced yesterday (May 15), which will come into play over the next two years.

A number of changes will be introduced under the plan, including the sale of Aurora Energy's customer base and the move to commence full retail competition (FRC) in the state.

Cameron O'Reilly, chief executive of the Energy Retailers Association Of Australia (ERAA), explained that the initiation of FRC would mean better choices for consumers, as it invites more retailers into the market and therefore a more competitive atmosphere.

"It will allow for a more dynamic, service-focused energy retail sector which will offer more energy market contracts to households.

"When given choice, Australians tend to embrace the right to switch energy companies," he added.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Faster and more reliable fixed network access will soon commence rollout in the area as part of the continuing progress of the National Broadband Network (NBN).

According to a statement from the office of the federal minister for broadband, communications and the digital economy Stephen Conroy yesterday (May 15), the setup and installation of the network is due to be completed in the three towns by 2015.

"This means that people living in and around Coffs Harbour, Taree and Port Macquarie will pay the same prices for NBN services as people in Sydney, Newcastle and Wollongong. This is a truly exciting time for broadband consumers in regional and rural Australia," Mr Conroy explained.

Regional Australian consumers will receive the benefits of the NBN through fixed-network wireless services, as an alternative to the fibre delivery method that 93 per cent of the country will get.

Over 170 communities - or 15,000 premises - will receive fixed wireless broadband instead of fibre - for those outside specific areas, these services will be delivered via satellite technology.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

The increase in costs that accompany the tax levy will be passed on by retailers and energy networks, essentially pushing up electricity prices for householders and businesses by what could work out to be a significant amount when spread out over a year.

However, the federal government pledged to offer support for families in the lead-up to the new tax scheme and this week that help will initiate.

The first amounts of household compensation will start being deposited into eligible consumers' accounts today (May 16), with the aim to cushion costs that will begin to rise after July 1.

It is estimated that around 1.6 million families receiving Family Tax Benefit Part A or B will have extra pocket money delivered to their bank accounts over the coming fortnight.

Those on Part A will receive up to $110 for each child in the household and for those receiving Part B can access up to $69 per dependent.

Nine out of ten households can expect to receive tax cuts or similar compensation payments to reduce the impact of the carbon tax.

Posted by Charlie Moore

While the prices of gas, electricity and water have roles in the allocation of household bills, other considerations still exert power over how much extra cash your family has to play with in a month.

According to a statement made today (May 15) by the RACQ, the price of LNG in Brisbane should be 10 to 15 cents per litre cheaper than it is now - and the organisation has said that wholesalers are pocketing the profits.

"The wholesalers are swallowing up the savings instead of passing them onto the fuel retailers who, in turn, can then pass them on to motorists," stated RACQ executive manager of advocacy, Lynda Schekoske.

Ms Schekoske said that usually the price of LNG would drop after the summer and bottom-out in August, however Brisbane motorists are still paying excessively high prices.

In fact, the price of LNG in Brisbane was found to be higher than those in Sydney and Adelaide - and in Melbourne the price was 10 cents per litre less than Brisbane's.

Posted by Callum Fleming

As far as households and businesses are concerned, gas prices and other utility bills will soon be adding to rising council rates which will increase incrementally across the board, according to a statement released by the City Of Sydney today (May 15).

The recommendations of the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal have contributed to average increases of $14 per year for households - from $605 to $619.

Businesses in the inner city can expect to see an average rise of $16,008 to $16,297 per year and those outside the city centre will see their rates increase from $5,609 to $5,807 on average.

Exemptions will still be in place for pensioners, who will not pay rates if they live in the centre of Sydney.

Mayor Clover Moore said: "Our research shows people choose to work, set up a business and visit Sydney for many of the same reasons they choose to live here, so making our city work for residents is just as important as making it work for business and visitors.

"The City has a long term-plan that outlines how we plan to tackle these critical issues and I'm pleased to report that we are well on track to meeting our goals."

Posted by Callum Fleming

Oftentimes a family or enterprise will find that gas prices compared with those of electricity or other power sources works out much better on their expenses.

Now, more regional Australian centres may be able to take advantages of gas, with the Victorian government beginning the next phase of its Energy For The Regions program.

Minister for regional and rural development Peter Ryan said: "Connecting homes and businesses to a more dependable energy source that is cheaper and better for the environment will have many benefits to regional and rural Victorians."

The program's first-stage direct negotiation phase is now complete and Mr Ryan stated that two regional gas projects - in Mildura and Huntly - have reached agreement.

Now the government will be increasing the campaign's scope to engage natural gas suppliers to deliver natural gas to other priority areas as well.

This expanded strategy will begin in the second half of 2012 and will analyse many different options, including strategies for decanting and transporting compressed natural gas (CNG) or liquefied natural gas (LNG) to the outskirts of regional towns and industrial estates.

Posted by Callum Fleming

And while utility bills can add up to a significant portion of the total monthly expenditure, there are other costs that can drive up costs and put pressure on households if increased by government or council regulation.

Queenslanders are set to experience a reduction in these costs, however, when the state government's freeze on private motor vehicle registration fees commences on July 1.

Minister for transport and main roads Scott Emerson confirmed that in the Cabinet's first meeting it was confirmed that vehicle licensing would be capped for three years from the beginning of the new fiscal period.

"Since 2008, registering a six cylinder car has ballooned by 30 per cent to $492.30, making Queensland the most expensive state to own a motor vehicle," Mr Emerson explained.

"The government understands the strain that puts on the family budget, which is why these two components of the overall cost will be locked in for the next three years."

Posted by Callum Fleming

If you commute to work every day, the fees you pay to ride the bus, train, tram or ferry can mean a large part of your take-home wages are put back into getting you to the office.

However, the Queensland government is taking steps to reduce the impact of public transport charges.

Transport and main roads minister Scott Emerson said: "Customer satisfaction for the January-to-March period shows affordability satisfaction for train passengers plummeted to 45 per cent - the first time this measure has ever dropped below 50 per cent."

The government scheme will provide passengers a free-travel-after-nine-journeys incentive, which could see significant savings for regular Monday-to-Friday commuters who will be able to ride at no cost on a Friday afternoon.

This is a potential saving of $150 to $220 per year for commuters who ride between one, two or three zones.

For people coming from the Gold Coast or Sunshine Coast it could mean savings of up to $500 a year.

Posted by Callum Fleming

Each state and territory has a raft of information regarding ways to reduce the amount of power, water and waste your family goes through and websites are a great place to start collecting facts.

Different levels of government can also offer rebates and grants for eligible entities - ones that reward consumers for their contributions to the power grid from solar energy, their green building initiatives and other sustainable habits.

For example, all the territories and states offer a solar hot water or heat pump rebate.

This scheme provides people who replace an existing electric storage system with a sustainable one - there are more prerequisites, but the nitty gritty is that those who are eligible will receive $1,000 for installing a solar hot water system and $600 for a heat pump.

For more information and a breakdown of all the rebate schemes that are available in your area a quick perusal of your government's website should do the trick.

Posted by Callum Fleming

The rise of the use of solar power by businesses and commercial property owners is one of the key factors behind the growth of cleaner energy, the publication said.

With increases to electricity prices likely after the instatement of the carbon tax it is thought that consumers are making the move to solar to avoid paying significantly more for power.

Commercial-scale solar is now considered to be more cost-effective than it was, making systems that sit on warehouses, office buildings, universities and community centres more appealing.

Cost-cutting in terms of utilities can give any business an advantage, by cutting the amount of money spent on operational costs and boosting available capital for growth and development.

The federal and state governments have schemes in place to make it easier for those wanting to invest in solar systems for their commercial buildings to do so.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Solar options for consumers can help with mitigating some of the symptoms of rising electricity prices - especially in light of the coming carbon tax initiative.

The Australian Solar Energy Society (AuSES) has welcomed the support of the development of solar industries in this week's (May 8) federal Budget, saying that the move will "supercharge solar".

AuSES praised the Clean Energy Future package in particular as being important in the rise of sustainable energy, with its schemes that allow households and businesses to take advantage of rebates and grants to boost the power grid.

The Renewable Energy Target is also an important existing measure, aiming to have the country using 20 per cent clean energy by the year 2020.

This initiative is designed to speed up the adoption of renewable energy practises and technology, with the majority of investment likely to be in rural areas.

AuSES chief executive John Grimes stated yesterday (May 9): "Solar power makes sense economically and environmentally and the Budget provides the basis for investment in Big Solar right across Australia."

Posted by Charlie Moore

Power tools and machinery for any project - whether it's repair or addition, renovation or rebuilding - will require a power source.

With your household already at the mercy of current electricity prices, you will want to ensure that any power used by a tradesperson is completely necessary and not wasted.

You can ensure the optimisation of electricity efficiency by making sure that you hire a green tradie - someone registered with an organisation dedicated to safe and sustainable power use.

There are many different companies certified as energy efficient by various industry groups.

For electrical work try an EcoSmart Electrician, certified through the National Electrical and Communications Association - they can offer advice and information about saving energy in the home.

If you need a plumber, consider GreenPlumbers - an initiative run through Master Plumbers and the Mechanical Services Association of Australia. They can also provide information about solar hot water and other sustainable ways to use water.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Funding for cleaner and more economical energy can lead to a better-regulated industry - which can mean financial benefits for consumers with electricity prices and other utility costs becoming more systematic.

With that in mind, the Clean Energy Council (CEC) has backed the government's decision to invest in an energy-efficient future for Australia.

Along with the National Renewable Energy Target - set at 20 per cent by the year 2020 - the federal commitment to other programs for the support and advancement of clean power development, delivery and consumption was welcomed by the CEC.

Chief executive Kane Thornton asserted: "With the cost of renewable energy falling faster than expected while fossil fuel based electricity generation costs continue to rise, investment in clean energy now will help us to avoid price shocks in the future.

"This budget will set the nation up for a transition to cleaner sources of energy."

While Mr Thornton expressed disappointment at the abolishment of the Tax Breaks for Green Buildings program, he was hopeful that the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and Low Carbon Australia could fill the gap and continue to encourage energy efficiency in the building industry.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Electricity prices will bear some of the burden of the carbon price after its commencement on July 1, however federal minister for climate change and energy efficiency Greg Combet said yesterday that the impact on families will be modest.

"Over four million households will get an extra buffer with assistance that covers 120 per cent of the average expected impact for a household of their income and type.

"The Gillard government will also support local jobs and ensure industries remain competitive as we transition to a low carbon future," he stated.

Federal initiatives including tax cuts and increases in pensions, allowances and family payments will assist almost six million households to meet their average price impact, Mr Combet said.

According to Treasury modelling, the $23 carbon price increase will only increase the Consumer Price Index by 0.7 per cent.

Mr Combet explained: "Generous household assistance payments and support for jobs in trade-exposed industries [will assist with] the transition to a low carbon economy."

Posted by Charlie Moore

But where does that leave consumers who only need a high-quality telephone line?

This is a question that NBN Co - the organisation in charge of the development of the network - and Primus will be tackling as partners.

For those wanting to compare phone plans once the NBN has been set up their area, a traditional phone service may be available - if tests surrounding ease of provision for phone retailers are successful.

NBN Co chief operating officer Ralph Steffens said: "We understand that there will be a number of people who only want a telephone service and that we need to offer quality telephone services while making the transition to fibre as easy and straightforward as possible.

"By undertaking these tests we want to ensure it is easy for retail service providers to offer their customers the services they are familiar with using the equipment they already have."

Primus chief executive Tom Mazerski said that the telecoms giant's aim is to ensure ease of transition for NBN customers from copper to fibre while maintaining a high-quality voice service.

The test is due to commence in four weeks.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

For consumers concerned about how they can balance their energy costs with efficiency, the federal government has announced the launch of the Home Energy Saver Scheme, which offers tailored advice on reducing consumption and saving money.

The program will receive funding of $29.9 million over four years, supporting 19 not-for-profit organisations to deliver the service to around 100,000 low-income households.

"This will include in-depth assistance through home visits by trained workers to around 50,000 households facing financial and energy hardship," explained minister for community services, Julie Collins.

"Householders will also have access to advice, support and referral to financial products such as the No Interest Loans Scheme to enable them to make longer term energy efficiency improvements."

The organisations chosen to participate in the Home Energy Saver Scheme were announced last Friday (May 4) and the program is set to commence on July 1, when the carbon tax will begin.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Because of the various things that consumers need to pay for, there are, helpfully, many avenues available for saving money on expenses - reducing usage of water can help allay other costs like electricity and gas prices, for example.

The next time you decide to wash your car, think about how much water you will be using - consider a waterless washing product or making use of collected water instead of running it fresh from a hose.

If you own a pool, use rainwater to fill it and reduce evaporation by covering it with a pool blanket or keeping the sun off with a purpose-built shade.

Checking the inside and outside of your house for leaking pipes or connections should be done regularly - a leaking fixture could waste up to 20,000 litres of water per year!

Posted by Callum Fleming

Utilities can also be an important part of these financial concerns - and the impending carbon tax, set to commence on July 1 this year, may well be causing some small business owners some concern.

While electricity prices will be affected across the board, the federal government initiative Clean Energy Future has some advice for small businesses in particular, to help assuage some of the impact of increased costs.

According to the organisation, there will be no increased red tape for SMEs as they will have no reporting or compliance obligations.

However the rising costs to larger business may be passed on to smaller ones via increased electricity bills.

The commonwealth government has pledged $40 million towards the Energy Efficiency Information Grants program, which will provide small to medium businesses practical advice about how they can reduce their energy costs and boost efficiency.

Using energy wisely in your business will help you to reduce the impact of any increase in costs related to the introduction of the carbon tax.

Also remember that undertaking a price comparison can be a good idea, to check that you are getting the best deal from your power supplier.

Posted by Charlie Moore

For those concerned about how the increase in electricity prices will affect their budget - and how they can work to reduce the effects of these rises - the federal government initiative Clean Energy Future (CEF) has some advice.

An average family with two teenagers - earning about $100,000 per year - may face an average cost-of-living impact of $653 per year.

According to CEF this will be offset by government assistance of approximately $679 per year, consisting of tax cuts and extra payments - leaving the family better off by $26.

The government is also making it easier for households to increase energy efficiency by offering solar hot water rebates, phasing out inefficient lighting and improving the standards of appliances with the Equipment Energy Efficiency program.

Installation of solar and gas hot water systems is recommended, as well as proper insulation of houses and a switch to compact fluorescent lamps for lighting solutions.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Cleaner energy can also contribute the moderation of electricity prices by allowing more power to enter the grid at a lower cost.

As Australia moves toward more sustainable energy options, consumers may experience changes in their energy expenditure - and with the development of Tasmania’s Musselroe wind farm the clean energy sector continues its growth.

The $400 million farm will provide 168 megawatts of power to the grid once active - completion is expected in July 2013.

Foundations have been poured for the 56-turbine development on the Cape Portland farm, owned by hydro Tasmania.

“Not only will this exciting project boost our international reputation for renewable energy, it will also create 200 jobs in the North East region during the 18 month construction period,”
Tasmanian premier Lara Giddings told the Climate Spectator when visiting the site this week.

Ms Giddings added that a lot of planning had gone into the management of cultural and environmental impacts of the development.

Posted by Charlie Moore

But if you are renovating or building you may be able to make structural and design changes that would otherwise be invasive and time-consuming.

While your house is being opened up and rearranged anyway, why not take the time to check fittings, appliances, power points and building products to make sure that your home is the most energy efficient it can be!

If you are undertaking large-scale renovations, take the opportunity to talk to your builder or designer about uncomfortably warm or cold rooms that may require more heating or cooling - there may be a better floor plan layout that can optimise the temperature of your house.

If your kitchen or laundry is receiving a spruce-up, think about replacing older appliances like dishwashers and washing machines with newer, Energy Star-rated models.

They are certified to be the most efficient available, according to industry standards, maximising water and electricity use as much as possible.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Of course this is an expected phenomenon, but there are ways to make sure that your family is protected from the cold in winter - and the heat in summer - without using power inefficiently and feeling the bite of electricity prices.

One of the best ways to achieve this is to make sure that your home is insulated properly - most of the energy we use to heat or cool our homes can leak out without insulation.

If you are going to add insulation to your home and you are not renovating or building, the costs and time taken can vary, depending on how easily the insulation expert can access the spaces to be filled.

Some types of filler can add sound-proofing to your home, a handy application for a house that contains pets or many children!

A warm and dry home is also a healthier one - proper insulation can reduce mould and mildew build-up by cutting out condensation on windows and walls.

Your family could experience less coughing and cold-related symptoms this winter - and your wallet will thank you for it in the long-run.

Posted by Charlie Moore

The Energy Supply Association of Australia (ESAA) announced its support for the government's intent to invest $19.8 million, which will assist with completing smart meter rollout.

The funding will also support flexible pricing options to complement the new metering technology once it has been installed throughout the state. 

ESAA chief executive officer Matthew Warren explained that the smart meters will benefit customers by allowing them greater control over their energy use - those interested in comparing electricity suppliers to get the best deal will also be able to monitor their output in a more practical way.

"The Baillieu government clearly understands that the energy sector's changing, it's being transformed by new technologies that will empower consumers and change the way we use power," Mr Warren said today (May 3).

A more consumer-led energy sector would be a benefit to the state, he said, adding that the new meter rollout would lead to a smarter, more cost-effective process of energy consumption.

"It's important Victorians understand how smart meters can help them take control of their energy use and save them money," he asserted.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Although brands like iPhone, Samsung and LG may be dominating the market for smartphones and other communication devices and proving to be more popular for now, the makers of BlackBerry have released details on the key features of their newest handset, the BlackBerry 10.

Attendees at the BlackBerry World Conference in Florida got a sneak peak at the smartphone when Thorsten Heins, the chief executive of Research In Motion - maker of BlackBerry - unveiled his prototype.

"No one has time to pop in and out of applications every time they want to change an application. We want to use a paradigm that is easy and fast. It's all about the flow."

Features of the BlackBerry 10 include a new smart virtual keypad, advanced camera capabilities and its ability to easily traverse between apps and system setting windows using gestures.

There has been no official date of release announced for Australia - or any other country - and Mr Heins said that Research In Motion is taking its time to make sure that everything is perfect before a release "later this year".

Posted by Eve Gillespie

However, with the advent of more sustainable or clean generation and supply options, consumers these days are more able to choose one which is more aligned with their ideas.

A simple switch to a different company could mean that you are getting a better deal for your energy consumption, or it could see you making a choice for a greener electricity industry.

The Climate Spectator reported today (May 2) that a proposed wind farm project in New South Wales' Rugby area could provide clean energy for up to 74,500 homes if it is approved by the state government.

Although state guideline alterations and community concerns have meant that the wind farm proposal has had to reduce its scope - from 90 to 52 turbines - the companies involved in the project are still convinced of the benefits it will provide.

"If approved by the NSW government, the Rugby Wind Farm would inject over $95 million into the Rugby and Boorowa regions of NSW over the life of the wind farm," Chris Judd, managing director of REpower Australia, told the publication.

Posted by Charlie Moore

However, many consumers will be aware that cost-of-living pressures are still a real concern for most households - especially with the price rises and government taxes related to power generation that are expected to commence later this year.

The AMP NATSEM Income And Wealth Report shows that while the average income growth since 1984 for households in all socio-economic groups was enough to cover the cost of living during that period, the growth in utility expenses has been significant.

According to the study, electricity prices have risen by 253 per cent since 1984.

Rent prices were also a large growth area, with an increase of 223 per cent recorded.

Principal research fellow Ben Phillips, lead author of the report, said: "While there is little doubt that many families still struggle to make ends meet, this report shows that on average, Australian households, both high and low income, are financially better off than in previous decades."

Perhaps with a wider number of choices for power supply, those householders who feel that they are not getting the best deal are better equipped to compare electricity suppliers and switch - something that may not have been an option a few decades ago - limiting the effect of the significant price increases found in the report.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Apart from the advantages associated with increased communicative capability at home, an industry specialist has highlighted the dangers of using public Wi-fi spots instead of a fixed-line network in the safety of your own house.

Industry specialist Unisys has urged internet users to be aware of the issues surrounding access to private information that using devices on public networks can create.

John Kendall, security program director of Unisys Asia Pacific, said that while young people in particular are embracing new communicative technologies like laptops, smartphones and tablets, they may not be aware of the increased risk to privacy that goes hand-in-hand with using those devices on public Wi-fi networks.

He added that work-related public Wi-fi use is on the rise and data privacy is becoming more of an issue.

To reduce the risk of privacy breaches, Mr Kendall suggested users lock access to their devices with a hard-to-guess password that is changed regularly and be aware of who can read your screen when you are sitting near other people.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

IPART's report suggests an average price rise of 16 per cent across the board.

Those consumers who are signed up to EnergyAustralia face the largest increase - 19.2 per cent, or $338 per year for an average household.

Country Energy customers may see a 17.6 per cent hike and Integral Energy's customers are staring down the barrel of a ten per cent increase.

Carolyn Hodge from the Public Interest Advocacy Centre (PIAC) is calling on the state government to offer tailored financial assistance to rural and regional customers, who she says will be the worst-hit by the price hikes.

Ms Hodge explained that those in isolated areas are using up to 10 per cent of their income to pay electricity bills, describing the situation as "an accepted definition of energy poverty".

She added that current rebates for NSW residents were not keeping up with the pressures of increased household utility prices, although the government had provided a good boost last year.

Posted by Charlie Moore

While the increases to electricity prices planned to come into effect after the commencement of the carbon tax are a concern for many of us, the tribunal responsible for the pricing recommendations has admitted that low-income households will be hurt.

Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal chairman Dr Peter Boxall stated to a forum yesterday (April 30): "We recognise that these price rises are significant and will place substantial financial pressures on some sections of the community, particularly those with lower incomes."

However, even in the face of increased electricity expenses there are ways that families can maximise their households' energy efficiency, to make sure that they are only paying for what is necessary.

Replacing halogen or incandescent light bulbs with fluorescent versions can mean significant savings on your electricity bill - they use much less power and last up to eight times longer than their less-efficient counterparts.

Using dimmer switches where possible can also mean that your lighting is optimised to only provide what is necessary.

Timers and sensors are also a great idea for outdoor bulbs, to reduce the amount of time that lights are unnecessarily active while still also offering security at night.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Considerations like gas prices and other energy costs can impact any household budget.

However, water minister Peter Walsh said today (April 23) that Melbourne's water development strategy will give water consumers greater control over their bills by allowing households a greater choice of tariffs.

The project also aims to increase investment in wastewater re-use, cut red tape to increase the use of alternative water sources and introduce other reforms to the public water industry.

"These reforms will drive generational change in the way Melbourne uses rainwater, stormwater and recycled water and provide Victoria’s next major water augmentation," Mr Walsh explained.

He said that the drought period had created dustbowls out of many urban parks, gardens and sports fields and that a greater atmosphere of competition and innovation was necessary to maintain the best interests of the community.

"We now have a substantial reform process ahead of us to overhaul the urban water system and place a greater focus on local solutions instead of costly, large-scale infrastructure such as desalination," he asserted.

Posted by Callum Fleming

Calling allowances, free minutes and texts, multimedia capacity and data limits can all be factors that might sway a phone user to choose a particular supplier or plan.

And with music streaming now making its way into the telecommunications world, consumers can look forward to a whole new set of benefits regarding accessing tunes and mp3 libraries from mobile devices.

A new partnership between Telstra and MOG, announced today (April 17) will help bring those services to Australians soon, when the subscription music app is launched later this year.

Users will be able to download the application and make use of an online music library which features over 15 million tracks - subscribers will then be able to access unlimited downloads to store on phones and other devices, personalised recommendations and curated content.

Chief executive officer and founder of MOG David Hyman said: "Australia is a key, major music market and we're pleased to be the sole provider of on-demand streaming music for the leading telecommunications provider in Australia."

Posted by Eve Gillespie

Now when shoppers compare phone plans a consideration for data restrictions may be more likely to come into play, as MOG will offer a range of downloading and streaming options for subscribers.

For those unaware of the services MOG can provide, here is an overview of the benefits that users can experience.

Once the MOG application is downloaded - to a mobile phone, laptop, tablet or other internet-capable device - users can instantly access an online library of over 15 million tunes, all advertisement-free.

This music can then be grouped, categorised and organised as if it was your own personal collection.

Download and store your assortment to a device for listening to, no matter where you are, even if there is no Wi-Fi or fixed line service available.

MOG offers personalised services as well - Best In Class is a radio-type function which lets you listen to artist-only playlists, or a full mix of similar artists. You will receive recommendations based on your MOG listening preferences as well as your Facebook artist 'likes'.

Users will also get a high-quality audio experience - MOG streams at 320 kilobits per second - which is as mobile as any other communication application.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

But while you begin to compare phone plans to make sure that you are getting the best deal now - and that your supplier will offer a satisfactory package once the NBN is in place - remember that not only fixed-line networks like those PCs use will benefit from faster broadband access.

An NBN Co spokesperson told Adelaide Now that consumers should consider the role that fixed-line technology plays in wireless connections.

She told the publication that whenever people use a tablet or smartphone in WiFi mode they are accessing a wireless connection which uses a fixed-line network.

"People want the convenience of wireless technologies so they can use their iPads and laptops in more places, but fixed networks continue to do the 'heavy lifting' of broadband data use," she added, explaining that the prevalence of video was creating a need for faster up- and downloading speeds in both fixed and wireless contexts.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

Those consumers who experience a significant increase in their power accounts due to the tax may also see a rise in other business or household expenses as well - gas prices, grocery bills, water rates and other operational costs will possibly be affected by the reduction in spending capacity.

However, the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) has challenged the legal grounds for the carbon tax, releasing a statement this morning (April 10) that labelled the scheme 'unconstitutional'.

"Only the high court can decide the constitutionality of the carbon tax, but there are clear grounds to challenge it according to one of Australia's top administrative law minds," said Tim Wilson, IPA's climate change policy director.

Legal expert Bryan Pape was commissioned by the IPA to provide legal opinion on the carbon tax and has announced that the scheme can be challenged on a number of grounds including the conflict of federal taxing of state property.

Posted by Callum Fleming

For those who want to compare phone plans to find the best deal for their household or business, this may mean an increased awareness of government policy surrounding the NBN could be required.

After all, being well-informed can ease peace of mind when making a decision that could affect personal or business expenditure for an ongoing period of time.

But, as the Australian Financial Review (AFR) reported today, the NBN policy will most likely remain unchanged after the federal elections because of its projected revenue-gathering capability.

The report mentioned that both the Coalition and Labour camps were focusing on the income-generating properties of the NBN and that the scheme is considered capital investment, rather than expenditure.

According to the AFR, the opposition will look to renegotiate the $11 billion Telstra deal signed under the NBN policy, but other contracts will be honoured.

The predicted seven per cent return on investment was reported to be enough to seal the deal for both the Labor and Coalition leaders, however the cost to consumers will be significant whatever the outcome, said the AFR.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

Over the next three years, 3.5 million Australians will experience the increased connectivity that the rollout of the National Broadband Network (NBN) will provide - meaning consumers will be able to take more into consideration when they compare phone plans.

Among the benefits of high-speed connectivity is the increased ability to provide services to rural and outlying communities.

Telehealth is one of these services being trialled by the federal government, which aims to provide cancer patients, the elderly and those in need of palliative care quick assistance and ease of communication with healthcare professionals.

Minister for health Tanya Plibersek explained yesterday (April 4): "Imagine a cancer patient in Mandurah, Western Australia, speaking with her oncologist in Perth. She can remain in the comfort of her own home with family and carers, while her specialist collects real time vital statistics such as blood pressure or heart rate via the NBN."

Ms Plibersek and minister for broadband, communications and the digital economy, Stephen Conroy, announced an invitation for funding applications for pilot telehealth schemes.

The government is contributing $20.6 million over the next two years for innovative health initiatives which utilise the NBN.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

Dwellings using gas for their whole-house and water heating systems are expected to rise significantly in the next eight years, and as of 2005 the natural gas network covered 46 per cent of Australian households.

In general, gas can be a more favourable option for consumers because of its lower prices and association with sustainability and eco-friendliness.

However, according to a new independent report, gas suppliers and other utility retailers are experiencing productivity problems.

The Productivity Commission released its findings today (April 5) and the Energy Supply Association of Australia (ESAA) is calling on the government to action reforms such as price deregulation to boost the efficiency of the industry.  

ESAA chief executive Matthew Warren said: "Australia began important reforms of its energy markets at the end of the 20th century. The report found these were successful in unlocking value and improving efficiency.

"While we need to replace ageing infrastructure, we don't need regulations which artificially cap prices, block competition and stifle innovation."

Posted by Callum Fleming

Taking advantage of having price and benefit information for the many suppliers in the industry today available in one place can remove much of the hassle from comparison undertakings.

And while the industry itself can be an important factor in the setting of the power prices a user can investigate, the role of the consumer has been highlighted as a crucial one by a recent report into energy regulation.

Professor Allan Fels, on behalf of the Australian Competition Tribunal, released his findings today (April 3), with a recommendation to include consumer groups in network regulation.

His report focused on keeping decisions made by energy networks transparent and holding participants in the system designed to set prices accountable.

"Checks and balances in any regulatory system are essential for good decision-making. Regulators should be accountable. Consumers and businesses should be free to test what they see as flawed decisions," he said.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Business operators wanting to ensure that they are getting the best deal for their enterprise can benefit from a quick visit to an online service to compare phone plans.

Considering prices for calling, texting, multimedia connectivity and the range of options on the market can help increase awareness of what is available, and assist in making the decision of whether it might be best to switch providers.

To maximise operational productivity, it could also be a good idea for operators to make sure that they are not paying for any unnecessary features - whether they be functions that come standard on a particular handset, or an element of your contract.

For example, if your staff does not need to access email or other internet-based resources off-site, a smartphone may not be the best option for employees.

Similarly, if communicative access is all that is needed, text messages and call rates may be the only considerations necessary for a suitable business contract.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

Not only are the prices of gas usually a lot more economical and friendlier to the household budget, this particular power substitute is easier to cook with because of its heat adjustment capability - and it is much better for the environment in general.

For those used to electric hobs, a switch to gas can be particularly beneficial for cooking which requires quick heat adjustments - for example dishes which need to change from a high to low heat fairly rapidly, like sauces.

Compared to the slow-cooling heat plates usually found on electrical stove tops, gas hobs heat with a flame beneath a metal frame - once the flame size is reduced the temperature beneath the pot or frying pan similarly goes down.   

Gas can heat up your oven cavity faster than electric power as well, meaning you spend less time waiting for the correct temperature to be reached before cooking can begin.

It also produces a humid heat which is friendlier to tender meats and cakes because it minimises drying and shrinking.

Posted by Callum Fleming

The Clean Energy Regulator (CER) will also be responsible for reporting on greenhouse emissions and other energy concerns that can impact electricity prices.

For consumers this means that energy consumption, production and output will be regulated and reported on, including the carbon tax scheme which comes into play for many householders and businesses on July 1.

The CER's website also offers solutions for the reduction of energy bills in the form of solar panel financial incentives, known as the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

This scheme allows for home and business owners to benefit from cash rewards for the installation of solar water heaters, heat pumps, solar panel systems, small-scale wind systems or small-scale hydro systems.

These sustainable energy sources can reduce electricity bills and also benefit the national power grid by feeding energy back into the network.

SRES was initiated to promote the use of renewable energy and to keep the installation and ongoing costs associated with running these systems within reach of the average householders.

Posted by Charlie Moore

The best mobile plan from Telstra may soon become much more data-focused, as the telecoms giant looks to a future in which internet services will play a greater role in the home.

A new five-year investment plan was announced in The Australian today (March 19), which will see millions of dollars allocated to projects and services focusing on internet-connected devices. 

Leader of the investment project and head of innovation, product and marketing, Kate McKenzie, told the publication: "We think we have quite a lot of differentiation to add in terms of being able to help consumers make sense of the plethora of connected devices that people now have in their houses and how to get them to work together."

People looking into different phone plans, those wishing to switch suppliers or customers needing a new contract may like to consider the future of data-focused telecommunications - having a household, and perhaps even a business life, which is maximised for digital information control and transfer may soon be something all Australians experience daily.

Posted by Eve Gillespie

State energy minister Chris Hartcher told The Australian that a percentage of those savings would be passed on to households through energy rebates.

However, union groups are voicing their opposition to the plan.

The Electrical Trades Union (ETU) has spoken out against government plans to cut back on jobs relating to the merging of electricity distributors, saying that if electricity prices are an issue for consumers then more should be down to reduce dividends and not employment positions.

The organisation has highlighted job losses as a key problem with the merger - deputy secretary Steve Butler commented that if the government wanted to save consumers money it could eliminate the dividends received from those suppliers instead of jobs.

Unions NSW secretary, Mark Lennon called the merger "utterly perverse", and added that the government was abandoning the people of NSW in a time of economic vulnerability.

Posted by Charlie Moore

Shopping around for the best electricity prices can be an effort, and making sure that you get all the facts from the representative or sales person you talk to, or the website you look at, may be difficult.

There are, however, websites which can simplify this process by collating all necessary details for each supplier in one place, easing the hassle for consumers and providing an objective rundown of the facts.

This comparison system could begin to be more valuable to consumers, as a recent poll has highlighted Australians' concerns about the price of electricity supply above other household issues.

The poll, conducted on behalf of the Institute of Public Affairs (IPA) found that a majority of people are nervous about rising electricity prices due to the impending introduction of the carbon tax in July this year.

IPA policy director, Tim Wilson, blamed negative public attitudes on legislative issues and stated: "Sadly, too often household prices are rising because of bad government policy. It’s time governments got a reality check and stopped forcing up prices."

Posted by Charlie Moore

The relative affordability of smartphones available through the best mobile plans means that even tweens can have access to a multitude of websites anytime they have their phone with them.

Parental control has long been a standard for cable and digital television suppliers, allowing adults to place restrictions on channels with pin codes, and now Vodafone are rolling out their own system to help parents have a say in how their children use Android smartphones.

Vodafone Guardian aims to cut down on digital bullying by allowing certain contacts or numbers to be blocked for calls or text messages and providing storage for questionable text messages which can be used as evidence of bullying or abuse if necessary.

Restrictions can also be placed on outgoing calls and messages so that only specified contacts may be used - for example Mum or Dad - and parents can choose when and what their child does with the smartphone, including camera, web and calling functions.

Posted by Eve Gillespie