News
New-look water bills for November
Westernport Water is introducing new-look bills and tariffs to encourage waterwise customers.
About 70% of Westernport Water customers’ water use will qualify for the lowest of three new tariff bands.The move marks the start of the summer water-saving season, said Westernport Water’s managing director Murray Jackson.
“With our customers’ aid we got through the drought and have a reliable supply. Now we are directing our efforts to using water wisely – starting with the most needy.”
Westernport Water also helps people having difficulties paying water bills. Contact the free, confidential service, freecall 1300 720 711 or hardship@westernportwater.com.au.
Customer Services manager Merryl Todd said: “We also can help customers apply for special government hardship grants.”
Meanwhile, a new pricing structure called Inclining Block Tariff (IBT) applies for residential customers, including tenants, for water used from July 1, 2008. T
he new tiered pricing structure is designed to charge a higher price for discretionary and/or outdoor water use.
Mr Jackson explained: “IBT encourages water conservation and changes water-use behaviour by charging higher water users a higher price. Water use is charged in three tiers. The lowest tier represents the average household winter use, set at 33,000 litres or 33 kilolitres (kL) per four-month billing period. "
Mr Jackson said: “About 70% of our customers will qualify for the lowest rate. Even at peak use – between November and February – only 28% will be billed for between 33kL and 108kL while 2% will be charged top tariff for water use exceeding 108kL.”
Visit www.westernportwater.com.au and click on Water Plan fact sheets for more details, or phone freecall 1300 720 711.