Goulburn Valley Water (GVW) has announced a 4.2 per cent price increase in line with inflation, taking effect from July 1, as part of its Price Plan 2023-28.
Consequently, the average annual residential bill for homeowners is expected to rise from $958 to $998, marking an increase of $40.
Steve Capewell, Managing Director of GVW, emphasised the necessity of this price adjustment which would seek to strike a balance between affordability and investments into infrastructure that will create benefits for regional residents.
"We know our population is growing and we are seeing a continually changing climate — this is already translating into how we need to adapt to deliver our services, especially with the significant impacts to raw water quality we experienced in the January 2024 floods," he said.
“Our five-year plan will see us invest in our future service delivery by building or upsizing water and wastewater treatment plants and infrastructure in many of our high-growth regions, like Kilmore, Broadford, Mansfield and Shepparton.
“A small increase on bills now to fund some of our critical upgrades will have significant long-term benefits and is a key part in ensuring we can continue to deliver reliable services.”
Among the significant projects nearing completion are the 4.4km recycled water pipeline to Kilmore Racing Club and a 250ML winter storage lagoon in Mansfield.
Dr Capewell also highlighted GVW’s commitment to sustainability as a focus for future projects.
“We’re also looking at projects that will see us deliver on our commitment to reaching net-zero emissions by 2035, and by sourcing all our energy from renewable sources by mid-2025,” he said.
The price changes were determined following extensive consultation with customers and the Essential Services Commission.
GVW has also earmarked an additional $2 million to assist customers facing financial hardships.
“Our team is ready to help, and we can work with you to find a solution that suits your needs and helps take the pressure off,” Dr Capewell said.
For more information on support options, customers can visit gvwater.vic.gov.au/support or call 1300 360 007.
A comprehensive list of tariffs is available on GVW’s website.
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