Consumer protection agencies across Australia today launched an education campaign to encourage consumers to stop paying unnecessary fees to receive paper bills.
The national education campaign will improve consumer understanding and awareness of the benefits of online billing, and urge consumers to find out if they are eligible for fee exemptions programmes should they wish to continue to receive paper bills.
Assistant Minister to the Treasurer, the Hon Michael Sukkar MP, said consumers may not realise that every bill they receive in the post could be costing them extra.
"By opting to receive bills via email, consumers can save a considerable amount each year."
Assistant Minister Sukkar also said that many consumers are not aware that they may be eligible to receive paper bills without paying a fee if they have a need to do so.
Many companies offer exemptions from fees and charges associated with paper bills. Members of the community without access to the internet and those who rely on receiving their bills in paper form are encouraged to contact their various providers to request an exemption. Exemptions may also be available to consumers who are seniors, registered for a concession, receive income support, or for a range of other reasons.
For more information and advice on paper billing, visit the Australian Consumer Law website.