Tasmanians will pay an extra 3.5% for their water from July 1, an increase TasWater says will affect the average household by about $0.88 per week or $45 per year.
The price hike marks the third consecutive year of a 3.5% increase, adding an extra 12.6 cents to the average household’s bill each day.
TasWater General Manager of Customer and Community Matt Balfe said the increase is “well below inflation” and comes as the state-owned company faces rising operational costs.
“We know many Tasmanians are doing it tough right now, so it’s more important than ever that we keep downward pressure on bills,” Balfe said.
The price hike will apply to water and sewerage bills until July 1, 2026, when further increases are likely.
“With inflation and increased costs of operation, prices will likely increase in our next pricing plan,” Balfe said.
“We’re investing $1.9 billion across our assets over the next five years to ensure we can continue to deliver exceptional water and sewerage services for a thriving Tasmania.”
“We have some big challenges to face to ensure the security of safe, reliable water for generations to come.”
Balfe said work is currently underway to find the “right balance between price and service” through community engagement to influence future price increases.
TasWater currently maintains and upgrades 169 treatment plants, 952 water and sewerage pump stations, 289 water reservoirs and over 11,500km of pipeline.
The increase comes after TasNetworks revealed a proposal to increase power network charges by 15% in the coming weeks.
