"We are in the progress of investing around $30 million on developing an IT system that will enable gas consumers to move between retailers of their choice," said Ian Little, Envestra managing director.

"Until recently we had expected to recover this capital expenditure and annual operating costs through a special tariff levied against retailers."

"The Government's announcement has reversed this situation. We are now working with the Government to resolve the terms of this financial support and to ensure there will not be an adverse impact on our shareholders through this arrangement," added Little.