TasCOSS response to today’s TasWater announcement

The following may be used as direct quotes from Ms Kym Goodes, CEO, TasCOSS:

• This is a welcome announcement and takes an important step towards greater scrutiny and transparency around TasWater decision-making especially with regard to price increases.
• The new structure puts a shared voice at the TasWater board table—one that represents the interests of Tasmanians as consumers and as a State.
• We expect we will see an increase in the voices of consumers directly to all planning, pricing and service decision-making.
• Today’s announcement is a good first step towards stronger protections for vulnerable consumers who continue to struggle with balancing the costs of basic utilities such as water and sewerage with the costs of food, energy and a home.
• The 3.5% price cap announced today is a welcome change from the proposed 4.6% in TasWater’s current price and service plan. With wages and federal government payments (such as Newstart) remaining stagnant for years, it will be important to ensure regular cost of living pressures are monitored.
TasCOSS