Household bills · 3 min read
how to haggle with your provider: scripts that work
Word-for-word scripts for asking your power, internet and mobile provider for a better deal or retention offer. Polite, short and surprisingly effective.
By Agent Bill team · 4 November 2026
Haggling feels awkward. It doesn't have to be. You're not being rude. You're asking a business for its best price.
why it works
Providers keep better prices for new customers. But they'd usually rather keep you than lose you. The ACCC found the average household could have saved $291 just by moving to their own retailer's best offer. No switching. Just asking.
The thing you're often asking for is a retention offer. Here's what a retention offer is, and 5 common ones.
before you call
- Your latest bill
- Your plan name
- Your contract end date
- Any exit fees
- One competitor price you've seen
- 15 minutes
- A calm voice (and a cuppa)
script 1: power
"Hi, I've been with you for [X] years. I've seen cheaper plans elsewhere. Before I switch, can you check if there's a better plan you can move me to today?"
script 2: internet and NBN
Ask to speak to the retention or cancellations team. Then:
"I'm thinking of leaving. What can you offer to keep me on the same speed?"
Thinking of actually moving? Read is it worth switching internet provider?
script 3: mobile
"I'm paying $[X] a month. I can get similar data elsewhere for less. Can you match it or move me to a cheaper plan?"
For a reference point: Finder estimates Aussies spend $54 a month on mobile on average, vs about $42 a month for a month-to-month plan with 14GB+ data.
the cancellation call
If they say no, stay friendly and say:
"Okay, please go ahead and start the cancellation."
Then pause. Let the silence do the work. Often that's when the better offer turns up.
When should you actually walk? If they won't budge, you've checked a cheaper plan suits you, and there are no exit fees that cancel out the saving.
get it in writing
Before you hang up, ask for:
- the new price
- the start date
- any lock-in or contract length
- a reference number
common pushbacks
| They say | You say |
|---|---|
| "That's our best price." | "Could you check with the retention team, please?" |
| "That deal is for new customers only." | "I understand. I'm happy to become a new customer somewhere else." |
| "You'll lose your discount if you change." | "Can you show me the total yearly cost of both options?" |
| "We can't do anything today." | "No worries. When can I expect a call back, and can I have a reference number?" |
don't want to make the call?
That's what we're for. Not sure how much you're overpaying? Try the loyalty tax calculator first.
Sources
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