Background

AusNet is committed to building our understanding of our customer’s needs and improving their experiences and outcomes. We believe all customers – regardless of their circumstances and capabilities – should have access to fit-for-purpose energy services.

In 2022 we launched the Vulnerability Research Grant, an annual grant of $30,000 to social service organisations for research with customers experiencing vulnerability or with diverse capabilities. This research will help us better identify these customers, understand their needs and how to best support them.

We invited applications related to a range of topics including:

  • Defining segments for customers with different capabilities and vulnerabilities
  • Understanding ‘pain points’ different segments experience in their energy interactions
  • Identifying initiatives and opportunities for AusNet to better support customers experiencing vulnerability or with different sets of capabilities
  • Understanding how customers interact with their energy supply (for example energy saving methods, who they go to for support with various tasks etc)
  • Defining and identifying vulnerable communities on the AusNet network.

Yarra Energy Foundation awarded 2022 Vulnerability Research Grant

Yarra Energy Foundation was selected as the recipient of the 2022 Vulnerability Research Grant.

YEF will investigate the experiences of regional customers with specialised support needs who live with disability, health or medical issues. YEF will interview and survey regional AusNet customers to better understand their experiences of vulnerability and how customers experiencing disabilities can be best supported with respect to communications and energy provision.

Future opportunities

The Vulnerability Research Grant will be offered again in mid-2023. Suggested focus areas and application details for the 2023 Vulnerability Research Grant will be available here closer to the time.

Proposals will need to be for research with customers on AusNet’s electricity distribution network (though may cover customers on AusNet’s gas network as well).

For further information about the grant, please contact Jade Park via research@ausnetservices.com.au