Victorian water and wastewater assets are set for a rush of investment in the coming years after the state’s economic regulator approved customer price increases for 2026–27.

With Melbourne Water recently greenlit by the Essential Services Commission (ESC) to invest $7.3 billion in essential infrastructure between 2026 and 2031, North East Water got the nod to invest $280 million in infrastructure projects and ongoing water and sewerage services.

From July 1, Melbourne Water’s prices will increase by 4.1 per cent to reflect inflation, annual price adjustments for water retailers and the recovery of costs associated with the 2026–27 desalination order.

To support North East Water’s development plans, customers will pay 6.3 per cent more on their water bill in 2026–27, increasing a further 1.8 per cent in 2027–28.

North East Water provides water and sewerage services to about 120,000 people in 39 towns. This includes Wodonga, Wangaratta, Benalla and Yarrawonga.

Coliban Water and Greater Western Water also had prices increases approved for 2026–27.

The ESC said inflation remains the primary driver of higher charges, alongside approved infrastructure investment and the desalination pass-through for metropolitan customers. The regulator noted that annual bill impacts vary between water businesses depending on local investment requirements and operating costs.

“Victorians have rights when it comes to paying water bills. If you are struggling to pay, please contact your water business. They must help you manage your bills, and provide a range of options, such as flexible payment plans and assistance with concessions or grant applications,” ESC chair and commissioner Gerard Brody said.

“Our water bill calculator is a useful tool to estimate what your water bill will look like for the next financial year.”

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