Households connected to Coliban Water and Goulburn Valley Water are facing higher water bills as of July 1, after the Essential Services Commission signed off on new prices for water businesses.

The price of water volume for customers with Coliban Water has risen by 6.5 per cent and access charges are up by 6.3 per cent.

Overall, it is one of the highest increases in the state.

The average Victorian water bill will increase by $68, or five per cent.

The average Coliban Water household will pay an extra $103.49 per year — roughly $1.99 per week, or about $8.62 per month — on top of its current water bill.

Renters will pay an extra 65 cents per week for usage, with the average yearly bill to be $551.53.

While Coliban customers will bear the brunt of some of the state’s steepest hikes, those on the Goulburn Valley network have escaped relatively lightly.

GV Water customers are getting the best deal in regional Victoria, with bills rising just 4.7 per cent to an average yearly bill of $1076.

Coliban Water managing director Damian Wells said the increase would support investment in essential infrastructure to meet the needs of the region; however, he emphasised the focus on affordability.

He said the company understood many households were under financial pressure, and noted the Coliban Assist program was available to help customers experiencing cost-of-living difficulties, ensuring everyone had access to support options.

“We know the rising cost of living is affecting many people in our community, and we’re committed to supporting customers during this time,” Mr Wells said.

“The program includes plumber assist, leak detection, concessions, bill smoothing and payment matching, and is available to all customers in need.”

The ESC is an independent body that approves the prices Victorian water businesses can charge each year for specific services.

It is an annual process to ensure prices remain aligned with the commission’s water price reviews, which are conducted every five years.

ESC chair and commissioner Gerard Brody urged customers who were struggling to reach out to their water provider for assistance.

“Victorians have rights when it comes to paying water bills,” he said.

“(Water providers) must help you manage your bills, and provide a range of options, such as flexible payment plans and assistance with concessions or grant applications.”

To find out exactly what your annual water bill could look like under the new prices, visit the commission's water bill calculator at esc.vic.gov.au

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