Opinion & Perspectives
8 February, 2026
Will we have power in the heat? Or will bills blow out
"Power bills are set to rise sharply again this year as Labor’s energy policy continues to hit home, with forecasts suggesting prices could increase by as much as 24 per cent."
By DANNY O’BRIEN
AS VICTORIANS endured another severe heatwave, our energy grid was under strain and households and businesses are left wondering whether the power will stay on when they need it most.
Energy experts have repeatedly warned that rising demand during extreme weather increases the risk of blackouts, yet the Allan Labor Government continues to pursue its anti-gas agenda - a policy that will drive up energy costs and undermine reliability across the state.
At the same time, Victorians are being hit in the hip pocket.
Power bills are set to rise sharply again this year as Labor’s energy policy continues to hit home, with forecasts suggesting prices could increase by as much as 24 per cent.
For the average Victorian household already paying around $1,700 a year for electricity, that could mean an extra $400 or more - money families simply don’t have when they’re struggling to keep food on the table and pay rent or the mortgage.
Gas is not a fringe energy source. It is a critical pillar of Victoria’s energy mix, particularly during periods of peak demand and extreme weather.
Gas plays a vital role in stabilising the grid and preventing outages when demand surges, and it is essential to have a sensible, affordable transition to cleaner energy.
Ignoring that reality doesn’t make the system greener - it makes it weaker and more expensive.
Victoria needs a common-sense energy policy that prioritises reliability and affordability over ideology.
If elected to government in November, The Nationals will end Labor’s anti-gas policies and ensure gas continues to play an important role in managing the transition to cleaner energy - helping keep the lights on and energy bills down.
The Allan Labor Government can’t manage money, can’t manage the energy sector and once again Victorians are left to pay the price.
Danny O’Brien is the Leader of the National Party
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