Contact your electricity or gas retailer as soon as you think you may struggle, rather than waiting for overdue bills or disconnection notices. Explain your circumstances and ask about its hardship program, affordable payment arrangements, bill reviews, concessions and energy-saving support. Have recent bills, household income details and Centrelink information ready, but only provide information you are comfortable sharing. Ask the retailer to explain the plan’s payment amount, review dates and any conditions in writing. If you need help negotiating, contact your state or territory energy ombudsman or check guidance from energy.gov.au.