The big chill: 5.7 million Australians go without heating and cooling as energy bills soar
Key takeaways
- More than 1 in 4 say keeping warm in winter or cool in summer is no longer affordable.
- The research shows its affecting young Aussies the most.
- Tips to save on energy costs.
Energy costs are forcing millions of Australians to suffer through uncomfortable temperatures in their own homes, according to new research by Finder.
A Finder survey of 1,010 respondents revealed more than 1 in 4 (27%) – equivalent to 5.7 million people – admit they have gone without heating or cooling when they genuinely needed it because of the cost.
The research shows it's a young person's issue, with 1 in 3 in gen Z (36%) and millennials (32%) saying they've gone without heating or cooling for financial reasons, compared to 13% of baby boomers.
Mariam Gabaji, utilities expert at Finder, said Australia was in the grip of an energy affordability crisis.
"Going without heating in winter or cooling in summer isn't just uncomfortable – it can be genuinely dangerous.
"While heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster, the cold poses serious risks too, particularly for the elderly, young children and those with existing health conditions."
Finder's research shows 12% of Aussies say they have gone without heating or cooling regularly due to cost, while a further 15% admit it has happened at least once.
1 in 4 (25%) say they have never gone without, but they worry that keeping warm in winter or cool in summer could become a luxury they can no longer afford.
Gabaji said it was alarming that so many were being forced into a situation that put their health at risk.
"Nobody should have to choose between paying their energy bill and staying comfortable in their own home, but that is the reality for millions of people right now."
Gabaji said there were steps Australians could take to reduce their exposure to expensive energy bills without sacrificing their health.
"Comparing your energy plan is still the single most impactful thing most households can do – many are paying hundreds of dollars more than they need to.
"Remember loyalty to one provider almost always costs you money, especially if you've been with them for many years. The easiest win for most is to switch to a better deal.
"Heating and cooling account for up to half of the average energy bill, so targeting those appliances – making sure they're running efficiently and only when needed – can make a real difference."
Has energy cost ever caused your household to go without heating or cooling when you genuinely needed it?
| Yes, this happens regularly | 12% |
| Yes, this has happened before | 15% |
| No, but I worry it could happen in the future | 25% |
| No, we've always been able to afford to heat or cool my home | 48% |
| Source: Finder survey of 1,010 respondents, May 2026 |  |
Credits
- PR & Insights research team: Taylor Blackburn, Kate Boddington, Natascha Kwiet-Evans, William Capada
- Survey operation: Qualtrics
Sources
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