This means typical annual water and sewerage bills for residential owner occupier customers will increase 6.1 per cent – from $1,076 to $1,141 – from 1 July 2023.
For the remaining four years to 2028, typical annual water and sewerage prices for residential customers will decrease by an average of 0.9 per cent per year, before inflation.
The final decision follows a detailed proposal by Barwon Water which was carefully scrutinised by the commission, and consultation with customers and the community on a draft decision released in March.
The commission’s director of pricing Marcus Crudden says Barwon Water has initiatives in place to support customers experiencing vulnerability, including increasing direct financial support for customers struggling with their circumstances.
“We encourage customers to contact Barwon Water if they are experiencing difficulty paying bills, to discuss what assistance or arrangements can be made,” Mr Crudden said.
In Victoria, water businesses must provide payment assistance to households and small businesses. Customers who are experiencing difficulty with their water bills may be eligible for payment plans or assistance with applications for utility relief grants and other concessions.
In approving the plan, the commission considered Barwon Water’s price submission, and its responses to queries and the draft decision; consultants’ reports; written submissions from interested parties; and the views of participants in the public forum held on 28 April.
Barwon Water has committed to a number of key outcomes over the five-year pricing period, reflecting customer priorities: safe, secure, sustainable water; innovative, reliable services; a healthier environment; trust, affordability and value.
Barwon Water will invest $549 million in capital works to increase the resilience of its infrastructure to deal with challenges including climate change, resource security and population growth.
It will also build on its extensive engagement with its customers and community, and continue its support for Traditional Owner self-determination by taking a partnership approach to land and waterways management, working with Traditional Owners as well as other agencies and community members.
The Essential Services Commission thanks customers and stakeholders for their submissions and participation in the price review process, including with Barwon Water as it prepared its proposal.
