A smart plug should be the simplest device in your house. Most of the ones at Bunnings phone home to shenzhen or seattle to switch a kettle. Here's what works locally in AU sockets.
What disqualifies a plug
Needs an account to set up · stops switching when the internet drops · firmware locked to a vendor app. That's most tuya-based retail plugs out of the box.
What we recommend
Zigbee plugs beat Wi-Fi plugs for one underrated reason: every mains-powered Zigbee device is also a router that strengthens your sensor mesh. Our pick is the SONOFF Zigbee plug (AU) — rcm certified, energy monitoring, pairs straight to ZHA or Zigbee2MQTT.
What about the cheap Wi-Fi ones
Some can be liberated with Tasmota/ESPHome firmware, but AU-socket flashable stock is thin and warranties die with the flash. If you're not into soldering, buy Zigbee and move on.
The energy angle
87% of Australian homeowners rank energy efficiency a top priority. A $35 measuring plug on the dryer, heater and beer fridge tells you exactly where the bill comes from — see our Energy watch kit for the full setup.
Skip the shopping list: the Energy Watch Kit bundles the tested gear from this guide — cheaper than buying the parts separately.