The Justice and Equity Centre led a joint submission with Consumer Action Law Centre, Combined Pensioners & Superannuants Association, Council on the Ageing, Energetic Communities Association, Physical Disability Council of NSW and the South Australian Council of Social Service to the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) Improving life support processes rule change Consultation Paper.
The submission supports aspects of the proposed rule change aimed at improving identification and support for consumers with ‘critical’ energy needs, but raises serious concerns about accompanying measures that risk reducing protections and shifting burdens onto vulnerable households. It argues for a principles-based approach that prioritises consumer safety, maintains existing protections and improves registration processes without imposing burden or risk on people who use life support equipment.
Key recommendations include creating a subgroup for people with ‘critical’ needs, rather than a tiered system; maintaining the current equipment eligibility list; and retaining discretion in de-registration processes.
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