High energy and water bills continue to challenge Australian households who are already struggling with the cost of living.

We're inviting you to our free Community Workers Forum exploring the real-life consequences of unaffordable energy and water bills. It will draw on lived experience, combined with specialist knowledge to explore how we can collectively work to minimise the impacts of high bills on households.

Attendees will hear perspectives from First Nations and Multicultural communities as well as from speakers in the tenancy, disability, energy and water sectors. Ombudsman, Janine Young, will also provide practical information about how to assist consumers experiencing vulnerability.

This will be an interactive forum with plenty of time for Q&A so that we can learn about the experiences and concerns of consumers in your area.

Please limit RSVP’s to two people per organisation so that a range of community services have the opportunity to attend the forum.

Morning tea and lunch will be provided.

CONFIRMED SPEAKERS:

	Janine Young, Ombudsman and CEO, Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW
	Renee Wirth, Executive Director, Housing Strategy and Policy, Homes NSW
	Leo Patterson Ross, CEO, Tenants Advice & Advocacy Service
	Elfa Moraitakis, CEO, SydWest Multicultural Services
	Bec Jolly, Director, Energy Equity, The Energy Charter
	Adam Johnston AM, Energy Charter Lived Experience Panel Chair
	Renee Bailey, Senior Financial Counsellor, Northern Rivers Community Gateway
	Bridgette McManus, Manager Partner Experience and Innovation, Thriving Communities Australia
	Carolyn Campbell-McLean, Energy Charter Lived Experience Panel Deputy Chair
	Jessica Shipway, Leader - Affordability and BPO Operations, Energy Australia
	Mark Holden, First Nations Senior Solicitor, Mob Strong Debt Help
	Daniel Peacock, Head of Customer Contact, Sydney Water
	Julie Ryan, Customer Compliance & Escalations Manager, Sydney Water
	Tamara White, Extra Help Team Lead, Energy & Water Ombudsman NSW

Full agenda here

Customer resources

Please see EWON’s customer resources page for resources to help you and your clients with energy and water issues. There is a range of factsheets, information on payment assistance, high bills, saving energy and water around the home and what to do if your client has been threatened with disconnection. You can also find information translated into 40 languages.