Argy-bargy about the chargy: 9 million Australians argue about energy usage in their home
Millions of Australians are keeping a watchful eye on the energy consumption of the people they live with, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,014 respondents found 15% are arguing with or at least reminding their fellow household members to cut back on their energy usage 'all the time'.
A further 27% have had words with their loved ones or housemates 'occasionally' over the past year.
That's 9 million people who are squabbling about how much energy is being used in their home.
Mariam Gabaji, utilities expert at Finder, said it's a sad reality that millions of Australians fear a high energy bill.
"With bills climbing, it's no wonder people are watching every switch, socket, and appliance like a hawk.
"Energy use has become a flashpoint in many homes – and a cause of constant tension for many.
"Housemates should team up to keep costs down rather than turning on each other.
"Agreeing on simple rules like turning off standby devices, timing hot showers or being smart with heating can really make a difference to your energy bill."
Almost 1 in 3 (29%) Australians said their energy bill was one of their top 3 most stressful expenses in July 2025, a near all-time high, according to data from Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker (CST).
Gabaji said small habit changes at home can keep a cap on power bills.
"Skip the dryer and hang your clothes when you can, and only run the washer or dishwasher when they're full.
"Don't cram the fridge and let hot food cool before you stash it – it'll run more efficiently and cost you less."
Gabaji urged Aussies to make sure they were on the best energy plan.
"Choosing the cheapest energy plan is the single most effective way to slash your bills. No amount of switching off lights will make much difference if you're still with an expensive provider."
Australians reported spending $374 on average on their quarterly energy bill in July 2025 – a 13% increase from $331 in July 2022, according to Finder's CST.
Have you argued with/ reminded the people that you live with about saving energy (e.g. turning off the lights, heating etc) in the last 12 months?
| Yes, all the time | 15% |
| Yes, occasionally | 27% |
| No, I live alone | 13% |
| No | 46% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,014 respondents, July 2025 |  |
Methodology
- Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker is a monthly recurring nationally representative survey of more than 60,000 respondents.
- Figures in this release are based on 1,014 respondents from July 2025.
- The Consumer Sentiment Tracker is owned by Finder and operated by Qualtrics.
- The survey has been running monthly since May 2019.
Sources
Ask a question