The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has released a discussion paper and opened submissions for its review of the maximum prices WaterNSW can charge for its rural water services from 1 July 2026.
The review will assess the costs of WaterNSW’s rural valleys operations and determine bulk water prices that balance affordability for customers with the revenue needed for WaterNSW to operate sustainably and meet its statutory obligations.
IPART Chair Carmel Donnelly said the review will take a detailed look at how costs are shared and what constitutes an efficient level of expenditure.
“This review will examine the costs of WaterNSW’s rural valleys operations and determine prices for the coming years that appropriately balance what customers can afford to pay for bulk water with the efficient level of revenue needed for WaterNSW to remain financially sustainable while meeting its obligations,” Donnelly said.
Reviewing costs, sustainability and customer affordability
Earlier this year, IPART issued a short-term determination for prices covering July 2025 to June 2026. That interim decision was based on an assessment of WaterNSW’s September 2024 pricing proposal and stakeholder feedback highlighting the need for further consultation.
The temporary determination ensures prices remain regulated while IPART completes a deeper examination of WaterNSW’s proposed price increases and alternative options. The Tribunal is now conducting a more detailed review to ensure that only efficient costs are passed on to water users.
“The Tribunal is now undertaking a more detailed examination of these matters through this new review to make sure that only the efficient costs are passed on to water users,” Donnelly said.
Stakeholder engagement and online workshops
IPART is seeking broad input from customers, water utilities, and regional stakeholders to help shape the subsequent pricing determination.
“IPART is keen to hear all stakeholders’ views,” Donnelly said. “We invite stakeholders to have their say by making a submission via the IPART website or attending our online workshops.”
Two online workshops will be held in November, with registration available on IPART’s website. Written submissions close on 20 November 2025.
The findings will inform IPART’s final decision on bulk water pricing for WaterNSW’s rural valleys, guiding the organisation’s balance between financial sustainability and fair cost recovery for customers across regional New South Wales.
For more information or to make a submission, visit www.ipart.nsw.gov.au.