The commission’s director of pricing Marcus Crudden says the proposed plan will lower bills for GWMWater customers in real terms from 1 July 2023.
“Under GWMWater’s proposed pricing schedule, typical annual water and sewerage bills for residential customers will change by around seven per cent less than inflation from 1 July,” Mr Crudden said.
Based on the water business’ proposal, the typical annual water and sewerage bill for households will drop from around $1,400 currently to around $1,290 in 2023-24. Prices for rural pipeline, groundwater, environmental water, and bulk water services will also fall.
GWMWater, which has one of the largest geographic footprints of Victoria’s 18 water businesses, outlined a series of investment plans in its pricing proposal to improve water quality and reduce carbon emissions in the next five years.
Mr Crudden says GWMWater’s proposal was supported by a strong engagement program and good cost control.
“GWMWater has committed to delivering five customer outcomes over the five-year pricing period. These relate to safe drinking water, clean non-drinking water for urban and rural customers, reliable and affordable services, and a healthy and liveable region,” Mr Crudden said.
“The business is also focused on planning for long-term water security for its 70,000 plus consumers across western Victoria.”
The commission is inviting customers and stakeholders to have their say on the draft decision by lodging submissions on the Engage Victoria website or participating in a public forum in April.
“The Essential Services Commission thanks customers and stakeholders for their submissions and participation to date. We value and encourage your feedback on this next stage to help inform our final decision on GWMWater’s 2023-28 pricing proposal,” Mr Crudden said.
Details of the GWMWater public forum will be made available on the Engage Victoria website. Written comments or submissions in response to this submission are due to the commission by 28 April 2023.
The commission’s final decision on the GWMWater pricing proposal is due in June.
