On 31 July 2025, the Australian Energy Market Commission (AEMC) published a consultation paper on Improving life support processes in response to a rule change proposal from Essential Energy and SA Power Networks (SAPN).
The proposal is focused on process improvements and is not seeking to reduce protections to life support customers. The consultation paper seeks feedback on updating and clarifying life support obligations set out in Part 7 of the National Energy Retail Rules.
Life support obligations in the National Energy Customer Framework are a crucial consumer protection. Ensuring compliance with these obligations is an enduring Compliance and Enforcement Priority for the AER.
The AER made a submission in response to the consultation paper on 4 September 2025.