Review of the water charge rules: advice development

On 3 April 2019 the Minister amended the water charge rules, including combining the three sets of rules into the Water Charge Rules 2010. The Minister also tabled a document of reasons outlining where he departed from the ACCC's advice in making the amended rules, as required by s 93(7) of the Water Act 2007.

The Minister accepted a majority of the ACCC’s advice, including amendments to make schedule of charges requirements clearer, return the regulation of bulk water infrastructure charges back to Basin States (provided minimum standards were met), and to simplify the calculation of termination fees. The Minister decided not to implement the ACCC’s recommendations regarding distributions, non-discrimination, and the removal of individuals’ private right of action.

The amended rules will commence on 1 July 2020.