Millions shiver through freezing winter as heating costs surge

Monday, 18 August 2025 08:17

Millions of Australians prefer to suffer the polar chill than the expense of the heater, new research shows.

Millions of Australians are forced to shiver through the winter rather than turn on the heater as the cost-of-living crisis continues, a new survey reveals.

Comparison website Finder found 13 per cent of Australians go cold "all the time" to avoid a high energy bill, while a further 28 per cent tried to avoid using the heater as often as possible.

That equates to 8.8 million people struggling to afford warming their homes in winter, Finder said.

"It's heartbreaking that so many are sacrificing comfort and health just to avoid another crushing power bill," Finder energy expert Marian Gabaji said.

"We've seen polar blasts already this winter with certain regions experiencing sub-zero temperatures."

Gabaji said expensive energy bills had pushed some people into impossible decisions – like choosing between heating and putting food on the table.

Surprisingly, snow started to fall in northern NSW at 11am today, specifically in Uralla and Guyra,

"Going cold all winter isn't just uncomfortable, it can be dangerous, especially for the elderly and young children," she said.

"The stress of high energy bills can have a ripple effect with some having to go into debt to keep the lights on.'

Almost one in three (29 per cent) Australians said their energy bill was one of their top three most stressful expenses in July, a near all-time high according to data from Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker.

Australians reported spending $374 on average on their quarterly energy bill in July 2025 – a 13 per cent increase from $331 in July 2022.

Gabaji said there were ways to lower the cost of your power bill.

"Simple steps, like switching to a better energy plan and using more energy-efficient heating methods, such as electric blankets or ceramic heaters, can save households hundreds of dollars a year," she said.

"There are often rebates available to help you upgrade household appliances to more energy-efficient options. Check your state government's website to see what's on offer – it could help you save money all year round.

"Energy retailers are banking on people staying loyal or feeling overwhelmed. A quick comparison could mean the difference between shivering and saving this winter."

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