An increase in calls to Energy Ombudsman Queensland has left the Energy Ombudsman concerned that people are not receiving their electricity bill.
Energy Ombudsman Barry Adams said, "It has been brought to my attention some south-east Queensland residents have not received their electricity bill in a timely manner, or in some cases, not at all."
"This creates a real fear for people that they will be charged for six months or more of electricity consumption and have only a few weeks to pay the account.
"In these hard economic times and with Christmas just around the corner, this is not acceptable.
"My Investigation Officers are working closely with the electricity retailers involved to try to resolve the issue.
"So far, we have helped people by setting up payment plans, negotiated extensions to the due date for payment, and for Centrelink customers, set up Centrepay agreements where a nominated fortnightly amount is deducted from a pension or benefit payment into an energy account.
"If people haven't received a bill for more than three months, they should contact their electricity supplier first and request one.
"If they still don't receive a bill, or are not satisfied with the response from their electricity supplier, contact Energy Ombudsman Queensland for assistance on 1800 662 837 or www.eoq.com.au," Mr Adams said.
First issued to the media 14 October 2008.
