The Essential Services Commission, an independent regulator, served the penalty notices on Origin Energy and Origin Energy Electricity Limited for alleged conduct concerning 54 customers.

Of those customers, 16 allegedly had their confidential information disclosed despite being victims of family violence.

Victoria's energy regulations include provisions designed to prevent the release of personal information, such as home addresses and phone numbers, to violent offenders.

The state has some of the nation’s toughest protections for utility customers impacted by family violence.

The energy supplier was also alleged to have undertaken debt recovery action against 38 family violence-affected customers without considering the potential impact on them.

The alleged breaches took place between June 2021 and March 2024.

Essential Services Commission Chairperson Gerard Brody described Origin’s conduct as disappointing, and further highlighted the need for supporting customers who had experienced family violence.

"This penalty shows the Essential Services Commission is determined to ensure retailers follow those rules," Mr Brody said.

“Energy and water businesses are legally obliged to protect customer information, ensure access to payment assistance, and provide customers with connections to specialist family violence services. The vast majority do.

“The Essential Services Commission has a long-standing commitment to protecting utility customers experiencing vulnerability and has recently partnered with leaders in family violence and economic abuse to better support people experiencing family violence.”