Water bills to rise

CASEY residents will be hit with an average water bill rise of about $2 per week from 1 July.
South East Water has confirmed prices for water, sewerage and trade waste will increase by 19.7 per cent.
South East Water managing director Shaun Cox said the increase would help fund the Victorian Government’s $4.9 billion Water Plan.
“Lack of rainfall and one of the worst droughts on record has taken its toll on Melbourne’s water reservoirs over the past couple of years,” Mr Cox said.
“Our customers have done a fantastic job saving water over the last couple of years and this has been a vital first step to tackle the immediate issue of low water storages.
“Now South East Water is working with the Victorian Government to plan and manage Melbourne’s water needs for the long term.”
The price increase was announced by the Victorian Government last year and has recently been reviewed and approved by the Essential Services Commission.
The Victorian Government’s $4.9 billion Water Plan, announced in June 2007, invests in water and sewerage infrastructure.
Projects include a desalination plant, the Foodbowl Modernisation Project, and a major upgrade to the Eastern Treatment Plant.
“South East Water is also investing in extending and upgrading the water mains and sewerage network, reducing the amount of water lost through bursts and leaks, and water conservation projects for residents and businesses,” Mr Cox said.
“The costs involved in securing Melbourne’s water supply will be paid for by all water users – residents, business and industry.”
The Victorian Government has increased concession rates by the same level as the price increase to help low income earners.
South East Water offers a number of payment assistance programs for customers having difficulty paying their water bills, including a hardship planning scheme and a financial assistance program.
For information on payment assistance programs call South East Water on 131 851.