Released 25/07/2017
The ACT Government holds concerns about the water pricing proposals put forward by the Independent Competition & Regulatory Commission (ICRC).
These proposals are in stark contrast to broader government policies, such as those associated with water conservation and efficient water use, and could be considered to send the wrong price signal to water users.
Canberrans have taken water saving messages to heart – and this is a good thing. Together with the ACT Government’s investments in improved infrastructure including the Cotter Dam, this has improved Canberra's water security. The Government cannot support a policy to reverse pricing signals that have encouraged water conservation, in isolation of other considerations.
Further, the proposals from the ICRC would have a significant and disproportionate impact on low volume water users. It’s an unfair proposal that will hurt Canberra families.
We will be putting our views on these proposals to the ICRC, through a Government Submission in response to the draft report, as part of the public consultation process the ICRC has now commenced.
I will write to the ICRC to urge them in the strongest terms to ensure consideration of the social and environmental impacts of their proposal is undertaken to ensure fairness in water pricing.
The ACT Government does not set water prices. The ICRC sets water prices in the ACT following consultation with the community and stakeholders such as the ACT Government.
- Statement ends -
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases