From 1 July 2009 your water bill will increase.
Western Water prepared a Water Plan in 2008 outlining our proposed infrastructure investments (pipelines, treatment plants etc) for the region and our services over the next 5 year.
This included a proposed pricing schedule which is critically assessed by the Essential Services Commission (ESC) - the economic regulatory body for the Victorian water industry. Our water prices are approved by the ESC, based on Western Water's need to fund new infrastructure and provide high quality services to the region.
After more than a decade of below average rainfall, the price rises are being driven by our need to purchase more water from the Melbourne system and by major pipeline and treatment system construction works underway in our region.
In the last year, Western Water spent $38 million improving treatment plants and laying pipe networks to secure our water supply and sewerage systems for the future. Western Water is developing innovative supply options using recycled water where drinking quality water is not required.
We expect to spend over $150M over the next 5 years to ensure we have a secure water supply for the region.
Service and Usage Charges 2008/09
Service access charges are billed across three billing periods, from the start of each financial year.
|
WATER |
|
| Service Access | $174.56 |
| Usage* | $1.4887 per kilolitre (1000 litres) |
| As of 1 July 2007, all towns are charged the same sewer service tariff. | |
|
SEWERAGE |
|
|
|
|
| All towns and districts | $443.48 |
|
MELBOURNE WATER WATERWAYS CHARGE (per year) |
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| Within Urban Growth Boundary | $85.12 |
| Outside Urban Growth Boundary | $40.68 |
*Commercial customers pay for water consumption via a 'flat rate' tariff.
Melbourne Water Waterways Charge
Melbourne Water is now responsible for the management of waterways, drainage and floodplains throughout the Port Phillip and Westernport Bay Catchment. These services will be funded through an annual Waterways Charge to be collected by Western Water on behalf of Melbourne Water. For more information, visit www.melbournewater.com.auThe annual charge $85.12 for non-residential properties inside the Melbourne Urban Growth Boundary or UGB.
The charge is $40.68 for all properties outside the UGB but within the Port Phillip and Westernport Bay Catchment. These charges affect our service region except for Woodend.
The UGB is set by the state government. For more information, visit www.dse.vic.gov.au/melbourne2030online
Trade Waste Charges
Trade Waste charges may apply depending on the nature of the business.
Further Information
Click here for more information about the ESC's regulation of the water industry.
Or for more information call Customer Relations Team on 1300 650 422.