Millions of Aussies choose saving money over heating, cooling homes

Millions of Australians are opting to shiver through winter and sweat through summer rather than heat or cool their homes, as energy costs continue to pressure household budgets.

A new survey by comparison website Finder showed that more than a quarter (27 per cent) of respondents said they’d gone without heating or cooling when they needed it, because of the cost.

That’s equivalent to about 5.7 million people around the country.

The problem was more pronounced among younger people, with 36 per cent of Gen Z and 31 per cent of millennials confirming they’d done so, compared to 13 per cent of baby boomers.

Finder utilities expert Mariam Gabaji said Australia was in the grip of an energy affordability crisis.

“Going without heating in winter or cooling in summer isn’t just uncomfortable – it can be genuinely dangerous,” she said.

“While heat kills more Australians than any other natural disaster, the cold poses serious risks too, particularly for the elderly, young children and those with existing health conditions.”

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Finder’s research showed 12 per cent of Aussies say they have gone without heating or cooling regularly due to cost, while a further 15 per cent admit it has happened at least once.

A quarter (25 per cent) say they have never gone without, but they worry that keeping warm in winter or cool in summer could become a luxury they can no longer afford.

Gabaji said it was alarming that so many were being forced into a situation that put their health at risk.

“Nobody should have to choose between paying their energy bill and staying comfortable in their own home, but that is the reality for millions of people right now,” she said.

Gabaji said there were steps Australians could take to reduce their exposure to expensive energy bills without sacrificing their health.

“Comparing your energy plan is still the single most impactful thing most households can do – many are paying hundreds of dollars more than they need to,” she said.

“Remember loyalty to one provider almost always costs you money, especially if you’ve been with them for many years. The easiest win for most is to switch to a better deal.

“Heating and cooling account for up to half of the average energy bill, so targeting those appliances – making sure they’re running efficiently and only when needed – can make a real difference.”