We are now embarking on our price review for the next five-year period from 2023 – 2028.
Victoria’s independent economic regulator fast tracks Westernport Water’s price submission
Westernport Water’s submission on pricing for the 2018-23 period was lodged with Victoria’s independent economic regulator the Essential Services Commission in September 2017, following 12 months of customer engagement.
The price submission sets out the services and prices we are proposing from 1 July 2018 to 2023.
Following the initial review of 16 Victorian water corporations, the Essential Services Commission released an early draft decision for four water corporations on 7 December 2017.
We are pleased to inform you that Westernport Water was one of just four water corporations that received a fast-tracked draft decision.
Essential Services Commission Draft Decision
The Draft Decision states:
Westernport Water’s price submission provided clear and comprehensive information supporting its proposals. Westernport Water also provided evidence that its engagement captured the main priorities and concerns of customers and that it has taken this feedback into account.
Our draft decision should allow Westernport Water to deliver on its customer service commitments, government policy, and obligations monitored by Environment Protection Authority Victoria and Department of Health and Human Services.
Some of the ways Westernport Water plans to improve outcomes for customers are by:
• improving the security of water availability by investing in a new supply system
• investing in asset renewals to maintain service levels
• improving support for customers experiencing payment difficulty.
Price Submission 2018-23
After a nine-month engagement program in which over 1,000 people, or over five per cent of all customers participated, the Price Submission has now been submitted to the Essential Services Commission for consideration.
The water price submission sets out our proposed prices, service standards and customer outcomes for the next five-year regulatory period.
Westernport Water is immensely proud of its customer engagement program, particularly the manner in which staff from across the business supported the process by facilitating discussions with the community around the key themes that customers wanted to talk about.
Ultimately, our customers have sought greater affordability, improved water quality, investment in the environment, and sustained performance through a focus on renewal activity.
Westernport Water’s Price Submission reflects customer expectations and is structured around four key outcomes:
• Reliable Water and Wastewater Services
• Better Tasting Water
• A More Sustainable Community
• Affordable and Responsive Services
Our submission is currently available on the ESC website.
To request a printed copy of our price submission, email water@esc.vic.gov.au, call them on (03) 9032 1300 or write to them at:
Attn: 2018 water price review
Essential Services Commission
Level 37, 2 Lonsdale Street
Melbourne VIC 3000