At its Ordinary Meeting on Wednesday, Inverell Shire Council resolved to formally oppose the exceptionally high bulk water pricing increases proposed by the Water Administration Ministerial Corporation (WAMC) and WaterNSW for the period 2025-2030.
The pricing proposals are currently under review by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART).
The proposed increases, if implemented, will significantly impact local water users, including Inverell Shire Council, which sources High Security bulk water for town water supply purposes.
The Council also uses General Security water for agricultural activities and irrigation at the Inverell Sporting Complex.
High Security entitlements will increase by as much as 276%, with General Security entitlements rising as much as 214%.
If the proposed price increases are realised, over the five (5) year period, Council’s bulk water bill for extracting water from Copeton and Pindari dams would climb from $140K to $434K, an increase of $294K.
Council would have no choice, but to pass these costs onto consumers.
Key Concerns
- The pricing increases proposed by WAMC and WaterNSW are disproportionately high and pose a severe financial burden on local water utilities, agricultural producers, and community infrastructure.
- Council’s water sources, including Copeton Dam, Pindari Dam, and various groundwater systems, are critical for providing sustainable water supplies for town residents and irrigation needs.
Council resolved to;
- Submit an objection to IPART against the proposed pricing increases, highlighting the detrimental impact on the Gwydir Valley and Border Rivers regions.
- Seek the support of Member for Northern Tablelands, Brendan Moylan MP, advocating for price increases to be limited to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
Council urges community members, agricultural stakeholders, and other affected parties to contribute to the consultation process to ensure regional voices are heard.
For more information on the proposed changes or to participate in the consultation process, please visit the IPART website or contact Inverell Shire Council.
