I am a resident of Whitsundays QLD, Australia, and like many others in our community, I have seen my power bills double in just a few short months. This sudden increase is not only shocking but also deeply distressing. With the current economic crisis, this price surge is pushing people to their financial limits.

Ergon Energy currently holds a monopoly over North Queensland's power supply. This lack of competition allows them to set prices as they see fit, leading to what many of us perceive as price gouging.

According to the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission (ACCC), increased competition can lead to lower prices for consumers. In South East Queensland where there are multiple energy suppliers, residents have experienced an average decrease of 4% on their electricity bills since deregulation (source: ACCC Retail Electricity Pricing Inquiry Final Report).

We believe that introducing more power suppliers into North Queensland will create healthy competition and help reduce electricity costs for all residents. We urge the Australian Energy Regulator (AER) and the Queensland Government to end Ergon Energy's monopoly and open up our region’s energy market.

This isn't just about reducing our monthly expenses; it's about fairness, affordability, and consumer choice. We need your support now more than ever - sign this petition today!