The Tasmanian Economic Regulator has released TasWater’s proposed Price and Service Plan for the period 1 July 2026 to 30 June 2030 that is proposing a significant price increase of 8.8% per annum over the regulatory period, far above what many Tasmanians can afford given already strained household budgets.
TasCOSS CEO, Ms Adrienne Picone, said the price increase of 8.8% per year is significant and a major blow to Tasmanian households still struggling under a cost of living crisis.
“Tasmanians on the lowest incomes are already making enormous sacrifices to afford their household bills, with prices for the essentials still continuing to rise,” Ms Picone said.
“Under this proposal, water rates will skyrocket by more than 40% over the four years, equating to an average household bill increase of $522 by 2030.
“Significant increases in the price of water and sewerage services could contribute to higher rents and water costs for private rental tenants, whose landlords have the option to pass on the increased costs.
“We know those who are struggling the most are already rationing and trading-off the basics — going without food, medication and energy to pay their bills or turning to predatory pay day lenders to try to make ends meet.”
Ms Picone said TasCOSS recognises that TasWater pricing decisions are made in the context of continuing necessary investment in water and sewerage infrastructure and meeting operating costs.
“Given this, TasCOSS is calling for further government action to protect and better support those on low incomes who are struggling to pay their utility bills,” she said.
“The current water and sewerage concession is welcome, but it is only available to property owners where they reside, meaning thousands of renters that have water charges passed on are not eligible for a discount.
“An increase in the existing water and sewerage concession to compensate for higher TasWater prices, and a percentage-based (rather than a flat-rate) concession provided to all low income households that pay water charges, would be fairer and more equitable.
“The Tasmanian Economic Regulator has a critical role in investigating and determining the maximum prices TasWater can charge, and we will be seeking to ensure that approved prices and planned activities are fair and efficient.”