Water Pricing

State Water’s pricing structure is determined by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART). IPART is an independent NSW government agency that sets prices for a range of government services including water, public transport and aspects of gas and electricity charges.

IPART has determined the bulk water prices for NSW, based on State Water Corporation’s efficient costs for services, cost sharing between customers and government, and the affordability for customers.

The current determination was issued in September 2006 and is valid from October 2006 to June 2010, or until a new determination is made. To find out more about the price determination visit: www.ipart.nsw.gov.au

The 2006 price determination made a move toward full-cost recovery, decreasing the government operating subsidy and required State Water to achieve a balance between the level of services provided and the customers’ ability to pay.

There has been a significant reduction in fixed revenue to State Water from fixed entitlement charges. The statewide ratio of fixed and usage charges decreased from 70% to 40% over the four year term of the determination. This means that in years of low water usage, the water charges will also be lower.

Prices in the determination are subject to adjustment for CPI as advised each year by IPART.

State Water is currently preparing their next IPART Bulk Water Determination for 2010 to 2014 in consultation with Customer Service Committees. To find out more about the determination process contact your local Customer Service Committee, details of which can be found via the Customer Service Committees webpage.

Submissions for the next four year determination will be lodged to IPART in September 2009.

Water Charges for 2009-2010 for Regulated River and Fish River Customers.