Queenslanders can expect to pay on average $2.05 more per week under new pricing from Queensland Urban Utilities in the South East Queensland region.
Queensland Urban Utilities will increase water and sewerage costs for residents in the Brisbane, Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset areas will increase by an average 10.7 percent or $26.77 per quarter.
Queensland Urban Utlities blames the increase in water costs for consumers on increased bulk water costs, with ‘over half’ of the increase attributed to buying bulk water from the Queensland Government-owned water grid. This increase is driven by the government’s $9 billion investment in the water grid and other reforms to enhance the region’s water security.
Coming under fire as the new privately owned water utility provider for South East Queensland, Queensland Urban Utilities Chief Executive Officer Noel Faulkner was apologetic in tone, but would not back down on the increase.
“Price increases are unpalatable at any time. However, we have worked hard to ensure that, as a new water business, we deliver value for money by investing in the maintenance and expansion of the water and sewerage infrastructure.”
“The rise in the cost of buying treated water from the State Government-owned water grid will be felt by our customers, in addition to increases to
maintain the pumps and pipes and keep pace with the infrastructure needs to support population and housing growth.” Mr Faulkner said.
Queensland Urban Utilities’ capital works investment in the Ipswich, Lockyer Valley, Scenic Rim and Somerset areas will more than double next year, from around $50 million to more than $135 million.
“Queensland Urban Utilities is planning for the future, as well as continuing the work of the former council water businesses through ongoing maintenance and renewal programs.” Mr Faulkner said.
