Residential fees and charges
IPART and pricing proposals
Most of the prices that we charge are set by the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) based on the efficient costs of providing essential services. IPART sets our prices every three to five years, with adjustments for inflation in between reviews.
Our customer fees and charges to 30 June 2025
Business fees and charges
Frequently asked questions
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What is the new drought price?
The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) has introduced a drought price for the first time. This means that if water storages drop below 60 per cent total capacity.
The price increase rewards people for saving water when it matters most. While there’s a low chance of the drought price being applied, a 15 per cent reduction in water use would fully offset the costs, if it were to be introduced. The price also reflects extra costs associated with delivering water during periods of drought such as higher treatment costs associated with the operation of the Tomago Sandbeds and increased water conservation initiatives.
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Does the introduction of a drought price have any impact on the Customer Contract?
No. The Customer Contract can only be updated with the NSW Governor’s approval. The Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) released our new Operating Licence and Customer Contract in July 2022.
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Why has the Environment Improvement Charge (EIC) been removed?
An Environment Improvement Charge (EIC) of $41.01 will no longer apply from 1 July 2020. This charge has previously been levied on all customers in Hunter Water’s area of operations whose properties were connected to the wastewater system (also known as the sewer system), to support the expansion of our wastewater network. As there are other ways to potentially fund backlog sewer schemes, the charge has been removed.
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What is the Environmental Projects Charge and what does it fund?
This charge funds an additional $17.3 million for Hunter Water to spend on recycling to irrigate parks, sporting grounds or gardens, as well as stormwater naturalisation projects. This charge will amount to $1.70 per year over the next four years (2020-2024) for residential customers.
IPART's final determination for prices
IPART has finalised its review of the prices we can charge for the water, wastewater and stormwater services provided to residential and non-residential customers. Learn more about the updated prices to commence from 1 July.