Utilities

Victoria has a competitive energy market with many retailers. Use the Victorian Energy Compare website (run by the state government) to find the best deal. Gas heating is common in Melbourne homes due to cold winters.

Water supply is typically managed by the landlord or body corporate in rental properties — you usually don't need to set up a water account separately. Some states allow landlords to pass water usage charges to tenants. Australian tap water is safe to drink in all cities.

Council rates cover rubbish collection, recycling, and local services. As a renter, your landlord pays council rates. Recycling is mandatory — separate your general waste, recyclables, and green waste into the correct bins. Hard rubbish collection is offered free 1-2 times per year by most councils.