Bills & salespeople

Ask service companies about connection fees and monthly service charges. Call a few companies to compare prices.
If you have a Health Care Card ask about concessions.
Remember to take your name off accounts when you move out so you don’t get charged after you’ve left.
If possible, put the bills in everyone’s name so that each house member is authorised to discuss the account with the company.
Ask about Easy-Way payments so you can make a fortnightly contribution to your utility accounts, rather than paying a big bill every three months. There may be a cost to set it up so make sure you ask about it. You can also have direct debits set up through the post office for your bills, or from your Centrelink payment through Centrepay.
To make calls get a pre-paid mobile or a pre-paid home service kit from Telstra shops or the Post Office, or buy a phone card and use a pay phone.

Call 13 1450 for an interpreter to help you connect your services.

If a salesperson visits your house…

Meet them at the door, don’t let them in.
Ask for proof of identification and for their manager’s phone number.
If you don’t want what they’re selling say “no thanks” and close the door.
If you don’t understand them, ask them to bring back an interpreter.
If they refuse to leave, tell them you will call the police.
Beware of special deals – often there is a catch. Take the information from them and tell them you will call the company later to discuss.
Don’t sign anything unless you’re 100% sure you want it.