Australian household bills · 5 November 2026

Another interest rate rise? Check the bills you can control.

On 3 November 2026, the Reserve Bank of Australia increased its cash rate target to 4.85%. For households already managing rising costs, it is a useful reminder to review regular bills rather than simply accept every change.

An interest rate rise does not directly increase your electricity, internet or phone tariff. But reviewing those separate expenses can help you understand where your money is going and identify charges worth questioning.

Five checks worth making this week

1. Electricity: Compare daily usage, rates, supply charges and estimated meter readings. How to compare electricity bills.
2. Internet: Check whether a promotional rate ended or your plan price changed. Understand internet bill increases.
3. Mobile phone: Separate plan fees, device repayments and extra charges. Check your phone bill.
4. Insurance: Review renewal increases alongside your cover, excess and insured value. Understand insurance premium changes.
5. Water and council rates: Review the billing period, fixed charges and any changes to the notice. Water bill guide and council rates guide.

Why checking matters

When household budgets are under pressure, reviewing recurring bills is a practical place to start. Check what changed, ask questions about unfamiliar charges and compare like-for-like billing periods.

Checking what you were charged is different from comparing offers between providers. BUSTYA helps analyse supported bills and build a history of charges so changes are easier to see. It does not refinance mortgages or guarantee savings.

Sources and further reading

• Reserve Bank of Australia — cash rate target
• ASIC Moneysmart — cost-of-living help