Regulator releases final decision on Yarra Valley Water’s Price Submission 2023-28
From 1 July 2023, a typical household annual water and sewerage bill will increase by 2.06% on average which is 4.96% below inflation. On a typical quarterly bill, this is an additional cost of around $5.31.
Managing Director Pat McCafferty said the water utility is committed to ensuring essential services are affordable and accessible to everyone.
“Our focus on affordability has seen our average bills consistently decline in real terms (before inflation) since 2013-14. This means average bills in 2028 will be at about the same level as they were in 2013,” Mr McCafferty said.
For a typical residential owner occupier, estimated annual water and sewerage bills (including inflation) will rise from around $1,028 currently to $1,049 in 2023/24.
For a typical residential tenant, bills (including inflation) will rise from around $498 currently to $508 in 2023-24, or $2.50 on the average quarterly bill.
Melbourne households have some of the lowest water bills in Australia.
The Essential Services Commission has completed its review of pricing proposals from 14 of Victoria’s water businesses for the next five years.
It follows a careful review of the detailed proposals made by each water business and extensive consultation with customers and the community throughout the review process.
“We’ve deeply engaged with a wide range of customers for our pricing submission and would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their participation,” Mr McCafferty said. “These valuable insights and contributions have helped shape our approach and ensure that customer interests are reflected in our pricing decisions.”
As part of its price submission, Yarra Valley Water has refined its customer outcome commitments, measures, and targets, in recognition of servicing a wide range of customers with different needs and expectations.
In addition, based on customer consultation Yarra Valley Water has combined the water usage and sewage disposal charges for residential customers to make bills easier to understand.
“We know that many people are concerned about the rising cost of living, and we want to let our customers know that we’re here to help if they’re struggling to pay their bills,” he said.
“We have a range of programs available for any customer experiencing financial hardship, and would encourage people to call us on 1300 441 248 or visit www.yvw.com.au/watercare for more information on how we can help,” Mr McCafferty said.