I received a email from our electricity supplier saying that we now have to change to a smart meter. It's now law.

On contacting the supplier I was also told that they would be changing the tariff, to include a on-demand charge. Basically that means paying more for the same usage of electricity.

However because of the backlash from consumers that are getting higher bills since changing to a smart meter the power regulator has made a rule, that will not come into places until the 1 December, that a provider cannot change the tariffs without the consumers consent. However that will only apply for the next two years.

So I suggest to everybody, that they contact the supplier after the first of December and tell them you want to be changed to a flat rate plan. Unless you have made other arrangements you will pay less by doing so.

There is a very good ABC video on YouTube explaining the difference between the different types of rates and the terminologies involved.

How smart meters are changing your power bill

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQ5eXggsDp0

I would also strongly suggest that everybody contact their local Federal member of Parliament and tell them they do not want to be forced to on demand or time of use tariffs. Otherwise in two years time practically everybody will be paying more for using the same amount of electricity because of these demand tariffs.