2026-27 rates are live. DMO, VDO and solar feed-in tariffs updated for July 2026. See what changed

Outages

Power Out in My House but Not the Neighbours: What to Check

When your home is dark but the street is not, the fix is often a switch in your meter box. Here is how to check safely, and when to call for help.

Checked against regulator sources, October 2026

Is it the street or just you?

Whole street is out

Network outage
  • Street lights and neighbours dark
  • Shown on the network outage map
  • Nothing to fix at home

Best for: Check the outage map, report it if not listed

Only your home

Check inside first
  • Neighbours have power
  • Switchboard shows a tripped switch
  • May still be a fault on your service line

Best for: Check the switchboard, then call the network

Checking your switchboard

  1. Find the switchboard

    Usually in the meter box outside or a cupboard inside. Use a torch.

  2. Look for a switch that is down

    Safety switches (RCDs) and circuit breakers trip to the middle or off position.

  3. Unplug and reset

    Unplug appliances on the affected circuit, then push the switch fully off and back on.

  4. Plug things back one at a time

    If the switch trips again when one appliance goes in, that appliance is likely faulty. Leave it unplugged.

When to call an electrician

If a safety switch keeps tripping with everything unplugged, or you smell burning or see scorch marks, stop and call a licensed electrician. Do not keep resetting it.

Partial power, dim lights and flickering

If some rooms work and others do not, lights are dim, or appliances behave oddly, the problem may be on the network side, for example a broken connection on your service line or one phase down on a three-phase supply. Networks such as AusNet list dim or flickering lights as faults to report. Call your network's faults line, and switch off sensitive equipment until it is fixed.

If the power has been cut for an unpaid bill, your retailer arranges reconnection. Our disconnection guide covers your rights.

Common questions

Usually because of a faulty appliance, water getting into an outdoor power point or light, or damaged wiring. Unplug everything on the circuit and reset. If it still trips, call a licensed electrician.

Check your switchboard first. If nothing has tripped, call your network's faults line. The fault may be on the service line to your home, which the network repairs.

It can be. One flickering light is usually the bulb or fitting. Flickering or dim lights across the house can mean a network fault and should be reported to your distributor.

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.