Let’s be honest… with the cost of living the way it is, most Aussies would celebrate finding a $20 note in an old jacket pocket. So, an unexpected refund on your power bill? That’s definitely worth checking.
Thousands of Origin Energy customers are about to receive some money back after the energy giant agreed to refund more than $270,000 following an investigation by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
Why Are People Getting Money Back?
More than 4,500 customers who signed up to Origin’s Ongoing Saver electricity plan will receive an average refund of around $60.
The ACCC found some customers on the plan actually ended up paying more than they would have if they’d stayed on Origin’s standard Basic plan, despite the name suggesting they’d be making ongoing savings.
What Happens Next?
While Origin doesn’t admit it broke consumer laws, the company has agreed to refund affected customers, scrap the Ongoing Saver plan and avoid using plan names that suggest guaranteed savings unless they genuinely offer them.
The good news is you don’t need to do anything if you’re eligible. Origin says it’ll contact affected current and former customers directly to organise either a refund or an account credit.
It’s Worth Checking Your Bill
The ACCC is also encouraging Australians to compare their electricity plans regularly, because sticking with the same provider doesn’t always mean you’re getting the best deal.
And let’s face it… in 2026, even an extra 60 bucks could mean dinner out, a tank of fuel, or at the very least a couple of coffees that somehow cost the same as a small mortgage.
