TasWater is running a community engagement campaign that it says focuses on balancing price and service. 

The utility is seeking feedback to inform its draft Price and Service Plan (PSP5) to be submitted to the Economic Regulator next year.

Over 1,900 people completed a survey in the early part of the campaign that identified key priorities: affordable bills, quick response to leaks and faults, and enhancing waterways and catchments.

TasWater has now launched a bill simulator allowing customers to adjust service levels and see the impact on their bills. 

Recognising cost-of-living pressures, TasWater says it aims to offer more bill control. The simulator uses a hypothetical $100 annual increase, which customers can adjust based on service priorities.

TasWater is considering shifting from fixed to variable charges. Currently, 84 per cent of charges are fixed, limiting bill control. 

Reducing the fixed percentage and increasing variable charges could lower bills for those using less water. The utility says this change would be revenue-neutral for TasWater but aims to be fairer for all.

TasWater says this engagement is its most extensive, involving online surveys, phone interviews, and a community panel throughout 2024-25. Feedback will be used by a community panel of 45 Tasmanians for the PSP5 submission to the Economic Regulator by 30 June 2025.

“We are now at a crossroads where maintaining ageing and poor performing assets is not a sustainable option into the future,” said TasWater Chief Financial Officer Kane Ingham. 

“To protect our environment, health, way of life, and economy, we need to carefully consider what, where, and when we invest in water and sewerage infrastructure for the benefit of all Tasmanians.”