This means typical annual water and sewerage bills for residential owner occupier customers will increase 7.7 per cent – from $890 to $958 – from 1 July 2023.
For the remaining four years to 2028, typical annual water and sewerage prices for residential customers will increase by an average of 0.9 per cent per year, before inflation.
The final decision follows a detailed proposal by Goulburn Valley Water which was carefully scrutinised by the commission, and consultation with customers and the community on a draft decision released in April.
The commission’s director of pricing Marcus Crudden says the approved increase is largely due to Goulburn Valley Water’s increased investment in infrastructure needed for reliable services and quality drinking water.
Goulburn Valley Water recognises the impact the price change will have on customers, and has initiatives in place to support customers experiencing vulnerability, including increasing its funding for hardship support programs.
“We encourage customers to contact Goulburn Valley 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 response to the commission’s draft decision, Goulburn Valley Water provided additional information and assessments related to its customer initiatives.
“As part of its proposal, Goulburn Valley Water has refined its outcomes and measures to better service its region and provide improvements in areas its customers value most.”
“This includes $234 million in capital works that includes continued investment in renewable energy, upgrading existing infrastructure in order to strengthen reliable and safe water supply, and improving water pressure in identified towns,” Mr Crudden said.
Goulburn Valley Water has committed to a number of key outcomes over the five-year pricing period, reflecting customer priorities: provide reliable water and wastewater services that customers can trust; lead action and partner with its communities to grow the region; care for the environment and adapt to a future impacted by climate variability; deliver respectful and responsive customer service, balancing affordability, value for money and fairness.
“Goulburn Valley Water will also invest in five major projects to support regional growth and development, protect the environment, and provide reliable services,” Mr Crudden said.
The Essential Services Commission thanks customers and stakeholders for their submissions and participation in the price review process, including with Goulburn Valley Water as it prepared its proposal.
