Big win for consumers

THE Energy and Water Ombudsman racked up $770,000 in wins for customers last year as angry Queenslanders complained of unfair utility bills.

The ombudsman’s latest annual report shows that 7401 households, 455 small business and five government agencies sought action over disputes with billers.

Complaints involved late bills, unexpected back bills due to out-of-date addresses, being charged incorrect tariffs bills far higher than quoted.

One customer who was quoted between $100 and $1000 for an upgrade to their electricity supply had a win after copping a bill for $2700.