Water prices set for next five years

WATER bills will increase by $65 annually on average from next month under new pricing from Barwon Water.

The Essential Services Commission (ESC) announced today it had reached a final decision on the regional water authority’s five-year pricing plan, which provides a framework for bills through to June 2028.

A typical yearly water and sewage bill for residential homeowners will increase by 6.1 per cent, from $1,076 to $1,141, starting July 1.

The following years will see costs decrease by 0.9 per cent yearly before inflation.

The increase comes after Barwon Water had initially predicted it would lower prices over the five-year period in an ealrier draft of the pricing plan last year.

The final decision today followed Barwon Water’s submission of a draft in March that opened to community consultation including a public forum in April.

ESC pricing director Marcus Crudden said Barwon Water has initiatives in place to support customers experiencing vulnerability, including increasing direct financial support for customers struggling with their circumstances.

“Victorian water businesses recognise the impact price changes have on customers and almost all have introduced and invested in initiatives to better support customers experiencing vulnerability.

“We encourage customers to contact Barwon Water if they are experiencing difficulty paying bills, to discuss what assistance or arrangements can be made.”

The pricing plan also includes commitments from Barwon Water to invest its revenue into improvement and maintenance projects, including $549 million in capital works.

The process found that customer priorities were safe, secure, sustainable water; innovative, reliable services; a healthier environment; trust, affordability and value.

Barwon Water also indicated it would build on its engagement with customers and the community, and continue its support for Traditional Owner self-determination by taking a partnership approach to land and waterways management.