Small business energy rebate ends: What to do now

What changed

The Federal Government has confirmed the current round of energy bill rebates will not be extended beyond 31 December 2025. Earlier rounds provided automatic credits to households and eligible small businesses. These were framed as temporary relief during a period of high inflation, not a permanent fixture.

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Key points

• In general, the credits were $75 per quarter adding to $300 per year.

• Credits end after the December 2025 billing period.

• Policy focus is shifting toward ongoing measures, such as tax relief, rather than further bill rebates.

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What this means for small businesses from 1 January 2026

• No more automatic bill credits. Your payable amount will increase by the value of the credit you were receiving.

• Cash flow will tighten if you do nothing. Plan now so January invoices do not surprise you.

• Price dispersion matters more. Being on the wrong plan or a lapsed agreement will cost more without rebates masking the gap.

Avoiding bill shock: Four steps to take this week

1. Grab your latest bill, all pages: Check unit rates, daily supply charge, demand charges (if applicable), current retailer, and agreement end date.

2. Check for rollover risk: If your agreement ends in the next 90 days, set a reminder and compare options now.

3. Compare offers: Look at rates, daily charges, demand treatment, fees, and terms on the same basis.

4. Set simple operating standards: HVAC setpoints, lighting schedules, refrigeration checks. Small changes add up when rebates disappear.

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How Zembl helps

Energy bills

We compare your current pricing with competitive options from our trusted retailer panel, then help you choose a fit for your hours and cash flow.

Energy insights

We analyse your usage and highlight peak periods and quick wins that cut avoidable load.

Energy solutions

We help turn insight into action with practical efficiency steps and trusted partners where upgrades are needed.

‍Getting started is simple

Share your latest bill. In a 10‑minute call, a Zembl energy expert will walk you through clear options and next steps.

FAQs

Will rebates continue in any form next year?

The current federal bill credits end after December 2025. Check state programs separately, as some support is state‑based and may differ.

Do I need to switch retailers now?

Not always. First, confirm your agreement end date and current rates. If you are close to expiry or on a rollover rate, compare options immediately.

What if I run more than one site?

Bring end dates together, compare on a portfolio basis, and consider consolidated billing to reduce admin.

How long does a comparison take?

About 10 minutes to get the basics done. If you approve an option, we coordinate the rest so you can stay focused on customers.

Talk to a Zembl energy expert

Rebates are ending, but you still have levers. Send us your latest bill and we will compare options, recommend a fit, and help you act before January invoices land.