NSW Social Programs for Energy (Core Programs) Code- Schedule 1

AGL Energy (AGL) welcomes the opportunity to provide feedback to the New South Wales Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (NSW DCCEEW) in response to the NSW Social Programs for Energy (Core Programs) Code (the Code).

AGL’s detailed feedback is set out within Appendix A attached herewith. Only clauses that AGL has feedback on have been included.

AGL reaffirms its support for the NSW Government’s Social Programs for Energy and the ongoing improvements to the Code that underpin these initiatives. However, we wish to highlight our concern regarding the proposed commencement of changes. The energy sector is already preparing for significant regulatory reforms in 2026, which involves substantial system upgrades. While we appreciate many of the proposed amendments, the current commencement date for the consolidated programs set out in the Code risk placing undue compliance pressure on industry alongside 13 other impending rule changes commencing in July 2026, notably the Australian Energy Market Commission’s energy retail consumer reform rule changes. AGL therefore urges the NSW Government to consider extending the commencement timeframe for the consolidated programs from 1 November 2026 to January 2027. This will allow sufficient time to ensure system changes are fit for purpose, well considered, and implemented effectively for both customers and industry.

AGL would additionally welcome clarification on whether NSW DCCEEW intends to provide communications about the upcoming Code changes in 2026, and what expectations it has on industry for informing customers prior to the commencement of the changes next year.

Read the full submission (PDF).