Water and sewerage costs set to increase

Slight increases to water and sewerage charges have been announced by Gippsland Water for next financial year.

The prices are in line with those outlined in the 20132018 Gippsland Water Plan approved by the State’s Essential Services Commission.

For water, the annual service charge for a standard 20-25 millimetre connected will be $175.89, a rise of $3.65 on the 2016-2017 fee, for residential and businesses customers other than large industries.

Vacant land in a serviced water area will attract a charge of $87.86.

Wastewater (sewerage) availability charges will rise to $808.03 for the year.

That is $16.71 more than for the current year.

The charge on vacant blocks will be $403.99.

Gippsland Water bills customers three times a year and the new prices will apply from the next account issued.

Eligible concession card holders are eligible for State government rebates for their principle place residence of up to $313.10 if provided with both water and sewerage services and $156.55 if only connected to the water supply.

Customers can also negotiate specific payment arrangements to suit their personal circumstances.

A new Water Plan is being developed for post 2017-2018 and Gippsland Water has already started a program of engagement with customers and other stakeholders regarding plans.