For the first time, Queensland card-operated meter data has been made available, which means the Right to Power work will be extended into Queensland to build a clear picture of how card‑operated meters and energy hardship are affecting First Nations communities across the state. 

The original Right to Power report produced by Original Power with the First Nations Clean Energy Network and First Nations' research partners from Tangentyere Aboriginal Corporation, Nulungu Research Institute and Jabalbina Aboriginal Corporation, documented the lived experience of First Nations households using prepayment card‑operated power meters across Australia.

The report showed how prepayment systems can create real risks to energy security including sudden disconnections, higher effective energy costs, limited consumer protections, and the stress of managing power day‑to‑day with no safety net.

Evidence presented in the report supports the case for prepayment reform by Federal, State and Territory Governments through six key recommendations designed to keep First Nations' communities connected to power.

In the next phase of our research, we will update the evidence using the most recent 2024-25 financial year Card-Operated Meter data from Queensland’s isolated networks.

Our goal is to build a clear picture of the lived experience of community members who utilise card-operated meters — what’s working, what isn’t, and what needs to change so First Nations households and communities have a fair, safe and reliable energy system.

To do this properly, our Queensland team wants to connect with community members, organisations, councils, and local leaders who have experience with prepayment meters, energy hardship, or community-led solutions. 

Your insights will help ensure the updated report reflects real conditions and real priorities across Queensland.

Please reach out if you would like to provide any of your own, your communities or organisation insights.

Contact our Queensland Network staff:

• Kaneya Poudal, First Nations engagement and policy lead, [email protected]
• Glen Wingfield, Community Coordinator, [email protected]