Going to a 'OneStop' site does NOT guarantee the best rate!

[computerflyer]

BenSherman,

I have not yet seen anything as non-transparent as an Aussie utilities plan. Even a mobile plan does not come close. But, there is a way to compare, and I agree it is a bit tedious (instructions are for some readers who have not locked on to an accurate comparison. I suspect you have this down to a science too!):

a) save 1 year of bills - fewer won't get a valid comparison as all seasons need to be considered
b) enter each months use and costs in a spreadsheet
c) total the 12 months for full annual costs and full annual usage
d) now apply the "new" prices to the old usage data

Be sure to properly account for use in those months where part is peak season and part not.

Because of difference in charges, daily fees, bonuses, and discounts, one can often save a huge $20-30 per annum after the games are over! For those who have not paid attention, one can pay more on the "cheaper" plan with lower KWH charges but higher other costs.

Impressive, is it not

[BenSherman]

I saw this post on health insurance comparison and just had to mention that my favourite broadband comparison site has just started health insurance comparison.

Looks like they only have 4 funds at the moment (HCF, Australian Unity, NIB and GMF) but they are sure to add more soon.


I'm always comparing plans for all my services to keep the bastards honest. Now if there was only a way to compare power plans easily. Power really took lessons from mobile phones when obscuring the facts.

[computerflyer]

Everyone should review and compare EVERY insurance cover every year, for this very reason.

Regarding waiting periods for health cover, they are often waived for those switching funds in total or part. Ring and ask to be sure what their policy is, and if there are waivers make sure they are in writing.

[sunny19]

Five years ago, concerned at the continual rises with Health Insurance rates, I decided to give ISelect a go. I subsequently changed providers, going for a far lower rate, and better cover.
With the usual annual increase in Health insurance being well in excess of the CPI, I decided to do a little bit of research this year to see if my current policy was in deed a competitive rate and good value.
Imagine my shock when I found an even better Policy, offering a lower excess, and if anything, a plan far better suited to my age and situation. PLUS - and here's the thing that made me so very angry - was 36% cheaper!! That's right - a whopping 36% cheaper!
So because I was complacent and trusted a company to offer me the BEST deal, for 5 years I have been paying an exhorbatantly high premium. So of course, I have changed. I can see why people become lazy and complacent - because I have changed helath funds, I have to AGAIN go through all the wait periods. This is wrong - this is the third time I have had to do this and I am sure more people would change funds if they weren't faced with this highly unfair condition. (not that I plan to use it - but who knows if I many need to?)