Choosing between Origin Energy Ltd and AGL Energy Ltd is a classic income investor's dilemma.
Origin Energy is one of Australia's largest integrated energy companies, spanning electricity generation, natural gas supply, renewables, and retailing energy to homes and businesses. Alongside a strong presence across Australia, it also has operations in the Pacific and PNG.
Looking at the numbers, a few strengths pop out for income investors:.
Origin has a history of consistent, franked dividends. In 2023, 100% franking returned after a period of lower or nil franking seen in previous years. Its year-to-date return is also up 8.2%, providing a hint of positive sentiment.
AGL Energy is one of Australia's oldest and most well-known energy brands, with operations dating back to 1837. Today, it generates, trades, and retails electricity and gas, with assets ranging from coal and gas generation to wind farms and hydro.
AGL's dividend history has been more volatile in terms of franking — recently, franking has flipped back to 100% for the 2026 payments after several years of unfranked dividends. Its share price, however, has tried year-to-date, down 5.2%.
Origin, though, commands a premium on size and has outperformed AGL over the year.
For the fortnight ending 17 September 2026, both Origin and AGL saw modest day-to-day moves:.