PIAC’s response to IPART’s draft price determinations for both Sydney Water and Hunter Water is largely supportive of the proposals. PIAC is pleased that IPART has accepted the water usage charge for both utilities as this is based on consumer preference. This direct link between customer preference and pricing is a positive step in the process of ensuring that changes are in the long-term interests of consumers. PIAC is supportive of IPART’s recommended changes to economic regulation and IPART retaining the ability to review the utilities spending during the price review to ensure the efficiency carryover mechanism is beneficial for consumers. In addition to the price review, IPART was directed to review the fee charged for dishonoured payments by both utilities and the late fee charged by Sydney Water. PIAC is satisfied that there are sufficient protections in place for customers experience hardship. Finally, PIAC is seeking clarification on the impact of the introduction of a credit card fee by Sydney Water on vulnerable customers.
