A non-partisan analysis of how government decisions have shaped Australia's energy system
Few issues affect Australian households more directly than energy prices. Over the past two decades, electricity prices have risen dramatically, with the average household now paying more than double what they did in 2000 in real terms.
It's essential to cut through the partisan blame game and provide an objective analysis of how we got here. This means acknowledging policy failures across the political spectrum and focusing on evidence-based solutions.
This timeline tracks electricity price increases and maps them against key policy decisions made by different governments.
Understanding the components of your electricity bill is crucial to recognizing what's actually driving price increases:
Contrary to common political narratives, environmental policies have not been the primary driver of electricity price increases. Network costs and generation market issues have had far greater impacts.
State-based regulators approved massive investments in electricity networks, with consumers bearing the cost.
Implemented by: Primarily Labor state governments in NSW and QLD
Impact: +40-50% to retail prices
Alternative approach: Performance-based regulation with stronger consumer representation could have prevented unnecessary spending.
The sudden closure of this major coal plant with only 5 months' notice created a supply gap in the market.
Circumstances: Closure announced under Victoria's Andrews Labor government with no federal transition plan in place
Impact: +10-20% to wholesale prices
Alternative approach: A planned transition with longer notice periods and replacement capacity secured before closure.
The opening of LNG export terminals in Queensland connected our domestic gas market to much higher international prices.
Responsibility: Both major parties supported unrestricted LNG exports
Impact: +15-25% to wholesale electricity prices
Alternative approach: A domestic gas reservation policy like Western Australia's would have protected consumers.
A decade of policy reversals, abandoned mechanisms and partisan conflict deterred investment in new generation.
Responsibility: Both major parties through different mechanisms
Impact: Investment uncertainty leading to inadequate new supply
Alternative approach: Bipartisan long-term framework with policy stability to enable proper investment planning.
Energy prices vary significantly by state, reflecting different generation mixes, network costs, and state-specific policies.
Click a state for more information
The evidence shows that Australia's energy price increases can't be blamed solely on either major party. Instead, they reflect systemic issues in our energy market design and governance:
The most severe price impacts have occurred when hasty responses were required to address previous policy neglect—a pattern that has repeated across governments of both persuasions.
Your independent representative, should:
I believe affordable, reliable energy is essential for Australian households and businesses. Rather than engaging in ideological battles, focus on pragmatic, evidence-based policies that actually deliver results for consumers.