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Community facilities Environment and Water | February 25, 2020

Kealy launches petition for fairer gas prices in Horsham

The Nationals Member for Lowan Emma Kealy has launched a petition calling on the Andrews Labor Government to address the gas monopoly and associated skyrocketing gas prices in Horsham.

Ms Kealy has repeatedly called on Labor to take action to address the issue, to ensure Horsham residents can access a fair gas price and the same energy deals as those available in Melbourne.

“Time and time again the Andrews Labor Government has promised to establish a regulatory framework to protect Horsham gas consumers. But the fact is they have done nothing,” she said.

“It’s completely unfair that Horsham residents can’t access discount offers and are being charged excessive gas rates due to Labor refusing to renegotiate a cap or break the gas monopoly.

“I urge all members of the local community to sign my Horsham Gas Monopoly petition.

“The more signatures we can collect, the harder it will be for Labor to continue to ignore this unfair situation and the vulnerability of Horsham residents to gas price rises.”

Energy Australia currently owns 100 percent of the transportation capacity of the pipeline supplying gas to western Victoria, making them the sole gas retailer in the region.

During the past five years under Labor, Horsham residents have experienced price increases of more than 75 percent, and consumers have been unable to access pay-on-time and other discounts.

Ms Kealy has repeatedly raised concerns about the situation, including in Parliament and to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, believing Horsham people have been left vulnerable to a monopolised essential service.

“The longer this issue is ignored, the more local people will have to pay for Labor’s lack of action,” she said.

“It’s simply not good enough.”

Ms Kealy said people could sign the petition at her electorate office at 114 Firebrace Street, Horsham or obtain copies by calling 5382 0097.