New water prices approved

THE Essential Services Commission has made its final decision on pricing plans by Central Highlands Water and Barwon Water.

For Central Highlands Water customers, typical bills are expected to increase by $67 with an increase of 5.4 per cent from 1 July, while Barwon Water customers will see a jump of six per cent.

Between 2024 and 2028, CHW bills will increase another 0.6 per cent each year before inflation.

Central Highlands Water managing director Jeff Haydon welcomed the decision.

“The ESC’s final decision focuses on affordable and reliable water and wastewater services,” he said.

“It also takes into consideration the need for us to invest $251 million in major projects like wastewater services for future generations, water security upgrades in response to climate change, customer focused digital technologies, and infrastructure to support new development areas for a rapidly growing region.”

A statement from CHW said the utility will double its support services for vulnerable customers to $2.5 million over five years.

Meanwhile, Barwon Water’s six per cent increase from 1 July means an additional $5.52 a month for typical usage, which is less than the current seven per cent rate of inflation.

“By reducing prices in real terms, we have tried to shield our customers from the full impact of inflation,” said Barwon Water interim managing director Shaun Cumming.

“2023/24 bills for residential owner occupiers are 18 per cent lower in real terms than 10 years ago.”

Mr Cumming said Barwon Water will also have supports in place for those who may struggle to pay their bill.

“Anyone who needs help to manage their water bill receives assistance from us,” Mr Cumming said.

“Financial difficulties can affect anybody, and we urge our customers to reach out for assistance rather than dealing with the stress on their own.”

Director of the Essential Services Commission, Marcus Crudden, said the CHW increase was approved following consideration of the utility’s pricing submission to the ECS, as well as community and customer input.

“Central Highlands Water responded to our draft decision and requests for additional information, which allowed us to reach a decision on this matter,” he said.