Smart meter rollout speeds up

From 1 December 2025, the national smart meter rollout will accelerate, with the goal of all homes and small businesses having a smart meter by 2030.

From this month, electricity retailers will begin implementing Legacy Meter Replacement Plans to replace old, manually read meters with smart meters.

Smart meters can give you more control over your energy use and costs, more accurate billing and can make it easier to switch plans. They also enable new technologies like solar panels, batteries, and electric vehicles, helping consumers participate in the energy transition.

For most households, the upgrade will be a simple swap, with the installation taking about an hour to complete. If there are any safety issues like old wiring or asbestos your retailer will contact you before they replace the meter. Check out this video for more information on the installation process:

A new “one in, all in” service process for properties with shared fuses will also be introduced. This means that when one meter in a shared fuse arrangement is replaced, all meters will be upgraded at the same time, reducing delays and improving safety.

Consumer protections are also being strengthened. For two years after an old meter is replaced, retailers must obtain explicit informed consent before changing a customer’s retail tariff structure. This safeguard ensures customers have clear information and choice about any pricing structure changes following the installation of a smart meter.

You do not need to do anything right away – if you have an old meter, your retailer will contact you to arrange installation, explain what to expect and answer questions about the installation process. If you have an issue you can’t work out with your provider, contact EWON for independent advice or dispute resolution.

For more details on what these changes mean for you, view our FAQs or visit Energy Consumers Australia’s smart meter guide.