Residents of Sydney might soon see an increase of up to 10 per cent in their water bills over the next three years, according to a draft proposal from WaterNSW. Projections indicate that prices for the Greater Sydney area may rise by as much as 10.4 per cent annually until the 2027-28 period. This translates to an estimated $7 increase in water bills for the average household next year and a total rise of approximately $31 by 2028, before factoring in inflation.
The proposed price hikes could be implemented as soon as October. Carmel Donnelly, the Chair of the NSW Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal, outlined that the draft proposal took various factors into account, including the necessity of maintaining infrastructure for the efficient and safe supply of water to the city’s residents. She noted that these proposed increases are actually lower than WaterNSW’s original suggestion of around a 14 per cent increase for the same period.
Donnelly explained that while some price increases are unavoidable, they are essential for allowing WaterNSW to maintain its assets and provide the reliable services that the community expects. The goal is to ensure that customers only pay what is necessary for the efficient delivery of bulk water services.
As Sydney prepares for these potential changes, the implications for residents’ water bills are significant, raising concerns about increasing living costs amidst ongoing inflationary pressures.