Tara Donnelly

Tara Donnelly is Canstar Blue’s Utilities Editor, leading the team that focuses on energy, telecommunications and consumer technology, across news, reviews and how-tos. Tara has spent more than a decade covering these topics in Australia, the US and Canada, which means she’s written about countless product launches and industry changes, including the rise of 5G, Australia’s ongoing NBN rollout, the recent years of energy price volatility and the rise of renewable energy sources. Tara also has long experience in writing within the comparison industry, giving her great insights into the information consumers want when determining which plan or device will best meet their needs, while time spent in the financial sector before turning her talent to content lets her crunch the numbers on price with ease. Tara leads the coverage of Canstar Blue’s ratings and awards for the internet and phone sectors and is an expert at advising consumers on how to use comparison tools to find the best power, internet or phone deal. Her expertise has seen her appear in national media including 9 News, 7 News, Sunrise, the ABC and The Sydney Morning Herald. Tara has a Bachelor of Communications from the University of Canberra and is passionate about simplifying complex subjects so consumers aren’t just informed, they’re connected and confident.


No lock-in energy contract

Electricity deals that don’t lock you in

Posted by November 25th 2024

Want to switch energy providers, but worried about being stuck in a contract? Canstar Blue explains how electricity contracts really work, which retailers will lock you in, and which you’re free to leave at any …


Solar farms in Australia

A guide to solar farms in Australia

Posted by November 26th 2024

Large-scale solar in Australia is a growing industry, with dozens of solar farms set to supply the energy grid with green power in the coming years.


How to detect a gas leak

How to detect a gas leak in the house

Posted by November 29th 2024

Canstar Blue explains what a gas leak is and how to detect one in your home. We also highlight some of the symptoms associated with gas leaks, as well as tips on how to prevent …


Best energy discounts

How to get the best energy discounts

Posted by November 22nd 2024

Most electricity and gas companies offer large discounts to some customers. Find out how you can save money on your energy bill at Canstar Blue.


Hands touching button on blue solar charge controller.

How to reset a solar controller

Posted by November 22nd 2024

In this Canstar Guide, we walk you through how to reset a solar charge controller. We also share some solar panel charge controller troubleshooting tips for the next time it stops working. Solar charge controllers regulate …


EnergyAustralia App Reviewed

EnergyAustralia App Review

Posted by November 22nd 2024

Does the EnergyAustralia app really help you keep on top of electricity usage? Find out with Canstar Blue’s review of EnergyAustralia’s app.


Carbon neutral energy

Carbon neutral energy: What is it and who offers it?

Posted by November 21st 2024

Note: The contents of this article are currently under review. Please check back soon for updated information.   In this Canstar Blue guide, we explain what carbon neutral energy is and how it works. We also share …


Orange LPG gas cylinders lined up

Origin LPG: Gas Products Review & Guide

Posted by November 29th 2024

A powerhouse of the energy industry, Origin Energy has been switching on Aussie households for more than 20 years. As an integrated power company, Origin generates and sells electricity and gas, including liquified petroleum gas (LPG), …



Woman in red top holding phone on red background

Vodafone’s 5G network explained

Posted by November 19th 2024

Vodafone’s 5G mobile network rollout is underway, with coverage available now in selected suburbs. In this article Canstar Blue explores Vodafone’s 5G coverage and its selection of 5G-capable smartphones and mobile plans. Where is Vodafone 5G …