The latest DMO and VDO determinations are out – and from 1 July, default business energy prices are set to fall across much of Australia.

That’s good news for small businesses.

But there’s one important detail many businesses may be missing: some energy offers available right now are already priced below the new benchmark rates.

Which means waiting until 1 July to review your energy plan could mean spending more than you need to in the meantime.

 

Why businesses shouldn’t wait

For many businesses, energy is one of those operational costs that quietly runs in the background. Bills get paid, contracts roll over, and unless prices spike dramatically, it’s easy to assume everything is fine.

But energy plans don’t automatically become competitive just because market prices are changing.

In fact, many businesses remain on default or legacy pricing structures long after better-value offers become available. This often happens when contracts expire, when plans aren’t actively reviewed, or simply because there isn’t time to compare the market.

Now, with lower benchmark prices making headlines, some businesses may be tempted to wait until July before taking action.

The reality is, every day you wait, could be a waste.

In fact at Zembl, we’re currently seeing selected retailer offers below the newly announced DMO and VDO rates already – meaning some businesses can start saving before the new pricing officially takes effect.

 

Understanding your energy plan matters

The DMO and VDO are benchmark pricing mechanisms designed to protect customers on standing offers – but they aren’t necessarily the lowest rates available.

That’s why understanding what you’re currently paying, and how your business uses energy, is so important.

A Uni with extended study hours, a school with comfy classrooms, or a daycare with high daytime demand may all benefit from different pricing structures depending on how and when they consume energy.

Without reviewing your plan regularly, it’s difficult to know whether your rates still reflect the market – or whether better-fit options are already available.

 

Clarity creates opportunity

Even if after 1 July you find yourself with a price drop letter from your retailer, that doesn’t mean your bill is now as low as it can go – and not reviewing it could be leaving significant savings on the table.

By reviewing your energy plan now, you may be able to:

  • Access pricing below upcoming DMO/VDO benchmarks^

  • Reduce operational costs sooner

  • Improve visibility over your energy spend

  • Ensure your plan still suits your business needs

For those in education or early learning, Zembl simplifies the process by reviewing bills & consumption patterns, comparing pricing across leading retailers, and identifying better-fit plans without adding to your workload.