Energy prices in Australia continue to climb—and for many businesses, the electricity bill is now one of the top three operating costs. In this climate, an energy broker can seem like the smart, stress-free way to cut costs and lock in better deals.
But not all brokers are created equal.
While some provide valuable insights and long-term support, others simply funnel clients into contracts that boost their commissions. If you’re considering working with an energy broker, asking the right questions up front could mean the difference between real savings and a locked-in regret.
Here’s what every business should know—and ask—before signing on.
What Is an Energy Broker, Really?
An energy broker acts as a go-between for your business and energy retailers. They compare offers, explain contract terms, and help you choose a deal that suits your needs. Ideally, they also provide guidance on timing—when to sign, how long to lock in, and what type of contract structure works for your business profile.
The problem? Many brokers are paid by the retailers they recommend, not by you. That doesn’t mean they’re untrustworthy—but it does mean you need to be careful.
Before hiring a broker, review this energy broker comparison to understand how leading providers differ in transparency, pricing access, and service level.
Question 1: How Are You Paid?
This is the first and most important question.
Some brokers work on a commission-only basis paid by retailers. Others charge businesses directly, either as a flat fee or a percentage of savings. A few offer a hybrid model.
If the broker won’t disclose how they’re paid—or if their answer feels vague—walk away. Transparency is essential.
You deserve to know whether their recommendations are based on performance or incentives.
Question 2: How Many Retailers Do You Work With?
A good broker compares deals from across the market. A limited panel—say, just two or three energy providers—won’t give you the full picture.
Ask for a list of retailers they partner with. If they only present one offer or keep pushing a specific supplier, it’s likely they’re prioritising their own commission over your costs.
This energy broker breakdown shows how provider diversity directly affects the competitiveness of deals offered.
Question 3: Do You Analyse My Usage Before Making a Recommendation?
Any broker can throw numbers at you. A helpful one will first look at your historical usage and billing patterns.
They’ll ask for your latest invoice or smart meter data, assess your load profile (peak vs off-peak), and consider seasonal variations. If they don’t ask about your actual usage—run. They’re not personalising your quote.
Question 4: What Happens After I Sign?
This is where many businesses get burned.
Some brokers disappear once the contract is signed. Others offer end-to-end support, including:
- Contract tracking and renewal reminders
- Ongoing market advice
- Help resolving billing issues or network charges
Ask if they’ll stay in contact and what kind of support they offer post-sale. If it’s a one-and-done transaction, that’s a red flag.
Question 5: What Kind of Contracts Do You Recommend?
A trustworthy energy broker should be able to explain the pros and cons of fixed, variable, and hybrid pricing.
They should also flag risks like:
- Rollover clauses
- Minimum usage requirements
- Early exit fees
- Pass-through network charges
Too many businesses sign what looks like a good deal—only to find out months later that hidden charges have blown their budget.
Learn more about these traps through this helpful ACCC electricity market report, which outlines key pitfalls in plain language.
Case Study: A Business That Asked the Right Questions
A Melbourne-based events company was approached by a broker offering “exclusive rates” on a two-year fixed plan. Before agreeing, the company asked for a full list of partner retailers, commission structure, and whether the broker would help manage mid-contract issues.
The broker couldn’t give straight answers.
They moved on—and found another energy broker who provided quotes from six retailers, broke down cost per kilowatt-hour with peak/off-peak splits, and flagged a contract with a hidden meter charge.
By asking the right questions, the company avoided a bad deal and saved over $9,000 in their first year.
This shows the power of being proactive—and informed.
Don’t Forget: Ask for Proof
It’s one thing for a broker to say they deliver savings. Ask for proof:
- Case studies from similar industries
- References or testimonials
- A breakdown of a previous deal showing usage vs savings
You want data—not sales talk.
Use this energy broker comparison to evaluate service standards, contract results, and real customer outcomes before making your choice.
Final Thoughts
Hiring an energy broker can simplify your procurement process and help you secure better energy rates—if you ask the right questions upfront.
Focus on transparency, contract clarity, and after-sale service. Don’t be rushed into signing, and always compare multiple options.
In today’s high-cost energy market, the wrong deal can hurt your bottom line for years. The right broker can protect it—and save you thousands.