Millions of Australians are facing a stark choice this winter: keep their homes warm or keep their energy bills manageable. New research from the free comparison website Finder reveals that a significant portion of the population is enduring cold indoor conditions to avoid spiralling costs.
The issue underscores the impact of rising household expenses on daily life, with heating costs becoming a major source of financial stress. It also highlights the wider implications for public health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as older Australians and young children.
More Households Shivering Through Winter
According to Finder’s latest survey, one in eight Australians admit they live in a cold home “all the time” during winter to avoid high heating costs. More than a quarter say they limit heater use as much as possible despite low temperatures. The figures follow the company’s Consumer Sentiment Tracker from July 2025, which reported that 29 percent of respondents named their energy bill as one of their top three most stressful expenses.
The financial burden has grown noticeably in recent years. Australians reported spending an average of $374 on their quarterly energy bill in July 2025 – a 13 percent increase from $331 in July 2022. According to Finder’s energy expert Mariam Gabaji, “Energy prices have risen sharply, and it’s pushing people into impossible decisions – like choosing between heating and putting food on the table.”
Gabaji also warned that “going cold all winter isn’t just uncomfortable – it can be dangerous, especially for elderly Australians and young children.” For some households, she added, the situation forces them into debt simply to maintain basic energy needs.
Interestingly, around one in five Australians say they do not require heating at all due to their local climate. Yet for the remainder, winter has become a season of difficult compromises.
Practical Measures to Manage Costs
Finder’s research also outlined practical steps to help households cut energy bills without sacrificing comfort. Adjusting thermostat settings between 18°C and 20°C and programming heating schedules can help reduce usage. For smaller spaces, ceramic heaters offer efficient spot heating, while closing doors to unused rooms can further conserve warmth.
Other measures focus on reducing heat loss. Closing curtains and blinds before sunset traps warmth indoors, while opening them during sunny days allows for natural solar heating. Using rugs can insulate floors, and sealing gaps around windows and doors prevents cold air from entering.
Gabaji also pointed out that rebates are available in some states for those upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances. These incentives, combined with behavioural adjustments, can ease the financial strain on households facing rising costs.
