The steps to get connected
Talk to your electrician or builder
They work out the supply you need, single or three phase, and prepare the switchboard and meter position.
Apply to the network
Your electrician lodges a connection application with your distributor. For solar, this includes export approval.
Choose a retailer
Open an account and ask for a new connection. Outside Victoria, the retailer arranges a metering coordinator to install a smart meter. In Victoria the network installs the meter.
Service line and meter installed
The service line from the street is connected, the meter is installed and the power is switched on.
NSW: Accredited Service Providers
In NSW, contestable work on the network side, such as running a new service line from the street mains, is done by an Accredited Service Provider, not the network itself. The NSW Government says new connections from existing street mains need a Level 2 ASP, whose accreditation covers service lines and installing and energising meters. ASP lists can be searched by postcode.
Check accreditation
Make sure the ASP holds the right class for your job, such as overhead or underground service work, and that their accreditation is current.
Who pays
You usually pay for
- Your switchboard, wiring and meter box
- The service line from the street, where it is contestable work
- Any private pole or underground cable on your land
The network usually pays for
- Its own street mains and transformers, where they have capacity
- Ongoing maintenance of its network
- May charge for upgrades or extensions needed just for your connection
Connection charges are regulated, and each network publishes its connection policy. Ask for a written quote before work starts. Once you are connected, see our guide to moving house for setting up your account and export limits if you plan to add solar.
Common questions
Start with your electrician or builder, who applies to the local network. You also need a retailer account, and the retailer arranges the meter.
In NSW, an Accredited Service Provider authorised to connect premises to the network: installing service lines and installing and energising meters. The NSW Government says new connections from existing street mains need a Level 2 ASP.
It varies with the network, whether street works are needed and meter installation times. For a new build, start the process weeks before you need power.
Sources
Every rate on this page comes from the regulator or the regulated retailer. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.