cheapbills.com.au FAQ

How does Cheapbills.com.au work?

Cheapbills.com.au works by collecting your current utility usage and provider details, then comparing them against a selection of plans from their partner energy, internet, and PayTV retailers in Australia to help you find potentially cheaper deals. They also offer comparisons for interest-based financial products like home loans, credit cards, and loans.

Is Cheapbills.com.au really free to use?

Yes, Cheapbills.com.au states that its comparison service is “100% free to use” for the consumer. They earn revenue through commissions paid by the providers when a user switches to a new plan or applies for a financial product through their platform.

What services does Cheapbills.com.au compare?

Cheapbills.com.au compares electricity, gas, NBN, 4G/5G wireless broadband, and PayTV plans. They also include comparisons for home loans, credit cards, personal loans, mortgages, savings, and business finance.

Does Cheapbills.com.au compare all providers in the market?

No, Cheapbills.com.au explicitly states that they “do not compare all brands in the market.” They have a selected panel of “Australia’s leading energy retailers” and other providers they partner with.

Is using Cheapbills.com.au ethically permissible in Islam?

No, using Cheapbills.com.au is not ethically permissible in Islam due to its explicit promotion and facilitation of interest-based financial products such as home loans, credit cards, and personal loans, which involve Riba (usury) and are strictly forbidden. Cheapbills.com.au Pricing and Fee Structure

What is Riba (interest) and why is it forbidden in Islam?

Riba, often translated as interest or usury, is any unjustifiable increase or excess taken on a loan or in exchange. It is forbidden in Islam because it is seen as exploitative, unjust, and contrary to principles of economic justice, which promote wealth generation through real economic activity and shared risk.

What are the alternatives to interest-based home loans?

Alternatives to interest-based home loans in Islam include Murabaha (cost-plus sale), Ijarah (leasing with purchase option), and Musharakah (partnership financing), offered by Sharia-compliant financial institutions.

Does Cheapbills.com.au offer Sharia-compliant financial products?

Based on the website’s description, Cheapbills.com.au does not appear to offer any specifically Sharia-compliant financial products. Their listed financial services are conventional, interest-based offerings.

What are some ethical alternatives for utility comparison?

Ethical alternatives for utility comparison include government-backed, unbiased platforms like EnergyMadeEasy.gov.au, which covers all energy retailers in Australia, and the ACCC’s NBN Checker for internet. These platforms do not involve interest-based financial products.

How does Cheapbills.com.au handle my personal data?

Cheapbills.com.au collects personal details like your current supplier, usage habits, and contact information to provide comparisons. They have a Privacy Policy outlining how your data is used and shared with third parties (their partners). Users should review this policy carefully. The Importance of Independent Research Beyond Comparison Sites

Can I trust the reviews on Cheapbills.com.au’s website?

Cheapbills.com.au displays an average 4.5-star rating from Trustpilot. While Trustpilot is an independent review platform, it’s always advisable to check multiple independent review sources and conduct your own research to get a comprehensive view.

Why should I do independent research instead of relying solely on comparison sites?

Independent research provides a comprehensive market view, including providers not on a comparison site’s panel. It allows for unbiased information gathering, a deeper understanding of terms and conditions, and crucial ethical vetting for products like Sharia-compliant finance.

Are there any ethical concerns with PayTV services promoted by Cheapbills.com.au?

The ethical permissibility of PayTV services depends on the content being consumed. While the service itself is not inherently impermissible, if it provides access to content that promotes immoral behaviour, music, or other forbidden entertainment, then its use would be ethically questionable.

How often should I compare my utility bills?

Cheapbills.com.au suggests reviewing your utility plan every 12 months. This is a good practice as special offers and new plans are regularly introduced, potentially saving you money each year.

What information do I need to provide to Cheapbills.com.au for a comparison?

You typically need to provide details about your current energy plans, including the name of your supplier, your usage habits (e.g., if you have solar panels, work from home), and your current pricing. Cheapbills.com.au’s Business Model and Ethical Implications

Does Cheapbills.com.au help with moving home utilities?

Yes, Cheapbills.com.au explicitly states that their “friendly staff can help make the moving process easier” by assisting with setting up utilities at a new address.

What is the ABN of Cheapbills.com.au?

The ABN (Australian Business Number) for Cheapbills.com.au is 66 168 166 667. This indicates it is a registered Australian business.

How do I contact Cheapbills.com.au?

You can contact Cheapbills.com.au via phone at 1300 786 045 (Monday-Friday, 9 AM to 8 PM AEST) or through their “Submit Your Details” form on the website. Their email is [email protected].

What are some tips for saving energy at home beyond switching providers?

Cheapbills.com.au suggests tips such as using a smart meter, installing energy-saving devices, actively saving energy, and going solar. These are generally beneficial for reducing consumption.

Does Cheapbills.com.au offer business electricity comparisons?

Yes, Cheapbills.com.au indicates that they offer “Business Electricity” comparisons, suggesting their services extend to commercial entities as well. How to Choose Ethical Utility and Financial Providers