Business energy prices are falling, but waiting until 1 July could cost you

The good news is here, but the better news might already be available

The latest DMO and VDO determinations are out, and from 1 July, default business energy prices are set to fall across much of Australia.

That's good news for small businesses.

But there's one important detail many business owners are missing: some energy offers available right now are already priced below the new benchmark rates.

Which means waiting until 1 July to review your energy plan could mean spending more than you need to in the meantime.

Why waiting could cost you

For most small businesses, energy is one of those operational costs that quietly runs in the background. Bills get paid, contracts roll over, and unless prices spike dramatically, it's easy to assume everything is fine.

But energy plans don't automatically become competitive just because market prices are changing.

In fact, many small businesses remain on default or legacy pricing structures long after better-value offers become available. This often happens when contracts expire, when plans aren't actively reviewed, or simply because there isn't time to compare the market.

Now, with lower benchmark prices making headlines, some business owners may be tempted to wait until July before taking action.

The reality is this: every day you wait could be a waste.

In fact, at Zembl, we're currently seeing selected retailer offers below the newly announced DMO and VDO rates already. This means some businesses can start saving before the new pricing officially takes effect.

Understanding your energy plan matters

The DMO and VDO are benchmark pricing mechanisms designed to protect customers on standing offers (the default electricity or gas contract that a retailer provides to customers who haven't actively looked for a better deal). But they aren't necessarily the lowest rates available.

That's why understanding what you're currently paying, and how your business uses energy, is so important.

A hair salon with long trading hours, a tradie's workshop with high daytime demand, a professional practice with climate-controlled offices, or a retail shop with extended operating hours may all benefit from different pricing structures depending on how and when they consume energy.

Without reviewing your plan, it's difficult to know whether your rates still reflect the market. Or whether better-fit options are already out there waiting for you.

Clarity creates opportunity

Even if after 1 July you find yourself with a price drop letter from your retailer, that doesn't mean your bill is now as low as it can go. Not reviewing it could be leaving significant savings on the table.

By reviewing your energy plan now, you may be able to:

• Access pricing below upcoming DMO and VDO benchmarks*

• Reduce operational costs sooner

• Improve visibility over your energy spend

• Ensure your plan still suits your business needs

For small business owners, Zembl simplifies the process. We review your bills and consumption patterns, compare pricing across leading retailers, and identify better-fit plans without adding to your workload.

Ready to see what you could save? A quick chat with a Zembl Energy Expert is all it takes. No obligation, no upfront cost. Just straightforward advice on how to save.

_{*Prices will vary based on state, distributor and tariff}