Finding the best gas supplier in Victoria is less about picking a single “number one” retailer and more about choosing the plan that best matches your usage, location and contract needs. Gas offers can look similar on the surface, but small differences in the daily supply charge, usage rate (c/MJ), fees and contract conditions can add up over a year.
This guide explains what to compare in Victoria, how the local market works, what consumer protections apply, and how Zembl can help you get a clearer, faster comparison for your home or business.
What “best” means when comparing gas suppliers in Victoria
When people search for the best gas supplier, they usually want one (or more) of the following:
- Lower bills based on their actual usage over the year
- Price certainty, for example a fixed rate for a set period
- Fewer surprises, like unexpected fees or rates changing mid-contract
- Better service, including clearer billing or easier account management
- Simple switching with minimal paperwork
Because every Victorian household and business uses gas differently, the “best” plan is the one with the best total annual cost and contract fit for your site, not necessarily the biggest advertised discount.
How the Victorian gas market works
Victoria has a competitive (deregulated) retail gas market. That means you can generally choose your gas retailer, while your local gas distribution network still owns and maintains the pipes that deliver gas to your property. In Victoria, distribution networks include Australian Gas Networks, AusNet Services and Multinet Gas.
Your bill typically includes:
- Daily supply charge: a fixed cost per day to stay connected
- Usage charge: a variable rate per megajoule (MJ) based on gas consumed
- Other fees/charges: depending on the offer and customer type, this might include late fees or other pass-through charges
Retailers can change market offers frequently. If you have been on the same plan for years, or you have rolled onto a higher-priced offer after a discount ends, comparing again can be worthwhile.
Key factors to compare when choosing a gas supplier in Victoria
1) Usage rate (c/MJ) and any stepped or block pricing
Some offers use a single rate for all usage. Others use block pricing where the rate changes after you pass a usage threshold. The best structure depends on your seasonal pattern, especially if you use a lot more gas in winter.
2) Daily supply charge
The supply charge can be a major driver of total cost for low-to-medium usage properties. A plan with a slightly higher usage rate but a lower daily supply charge can sometimes work out cheaper overall.
3) Discounts and conditions
Discounts can look attractive but often come with conditions such as pay-on-time requirements, direct debit, or only applying for a limited period. When comparing, focus on the estimated annual cost using your actual usage, not only the discount headline.
4) Contract length, price changes and exit fees
Check:
- Whether rates are fixed or variable during the term
- Whether there is an automatic rollover or repricing clause
- Any early termination fees or conditions if you move premises
5) Billing, payment options and support
For some customers, “best” also means simpler billing and reliable support. Consider e-billing, payment methods, bill frequency, and the responsiveness of the retailer for billing queries.
Victorian Energy Compare and the Essential Services Commission (ESC)
If you want to compare publicly listed offers, the Victorian Government’s independent tool Victorian Energy Compare is a key starting point. It is designed to help customers compare generally available offers in Victoria.
Victoria’s energy rules and consumer protections are overseen by the Essential Services Commission (ESC). If you have an unresolved issue with a retailer, you may also be able to escalate it through the Energy and Water Ombudsman Victoria (EWOV).
These frameworks are important, but comparing offers can still take time, particularly if you are juggling a business, multiple sites, or you want someone to translate the fine print into practical recommendations.
Home vs business gas plans in Victoria: what changes?
Households and small customers
Most residential customers and many small businesses are on relatively straightforward market offers. If you have not compared in the last 12 to 24 months, it may be worth checking whether your current plan is still competitive.
Businesses and multi-site organisations
For larger sites, contracts and pricing can become more tailored. If your business has multiple meters, multiple locations, or higher monthly spend, a structured procurement process can uncover better outcomes than comparing one site at a time.
How to compare gas suppliers using your bill (the fastest way)
To get an accurate comparison, use your latest bill (or ideally the last 12 months). Collect:
- Annual usage (MJ)
- Current usage rate(s) and supply charge
- Any discounts and end dates
- Contract end date and any exit fees
- Your gas meter identifier (in Victoria this is usually your MIRN)
If you want to understand the line items first, see: How to read your energy bill.
How Zembl helps you find the best gas supplier in Victoria
Zembl helps Victorian customers compare energy plans without the usual admin load. We review your usage and rates, then compare suitable offers from our panel of retailers.
Depending on your situation, Zembl can help you:
- Identify whether you are on an outdated or uncompetitive offer
- Compare plans based on your usage profile, not generic averages
- Understand contract terms in plain language
- Manage the switching process and paperwork if you decide to proceed
Zembl is also a signatory to the Energy Comparator Code of Conduct, which sets standards around accuracy, transparency and customer care.
Related guides for Victorian customers
Next step: get a free Victorian gas comparison
If you want to stop guessing and see what’s available for your address and usage, request a free, no-obligation comparison with Zembl. Share a recent bill and we will do the analysis, explain the best options we can see, and handle the switch if you choose to move.
