The federal opposition has written to Prime Minister Julia Gillard calling on her with the intention that household power bills itemise the carbon tax.

Treasury estimates indicate electricity prices will go up 10 per cent, and gas charges by nine per cent, when the tax takes effect from July.

“It’s essential that the carbon tax be itemised on people’s power bills,” Opposition leader Tony Abbott said at Lakes Entrance, in Victoria, Thursday, five days into his annual Pollie Pedal charity fundraiser.

Ms Gillard had said the carbon tax doesn’t hurt households, he said.

“Now she admits it’ll cost you but she won’t say how much.”

Newly-elected Queensland premier Campbell Newman promised in the course of the state election campaign his government would force energy providers to publish the price of the carbon tax.

NSW Liberal Premier Barry O’Farrell made the identical call in November.

Overall, Australian households are expected to experience a price-of-living increase of $9.90 every week after the tax starts.

Many of them will receive, on average, $10.10 per week in government assistance.

The compensation would be delivered within the type of tax cuts and increased welfare payments.

Mr Abbott is cycling from Geelong in Victoria to Canberra for this year’s Pollie Pedal fundraising event.

He is predicted to finish the 900km challenge on Saturday.