2024-07-01
The ACT Government is creating a fairer water billing system for Canberrans living in apartments by introducing individual water metering for new unit developments.
The ACT Government is working with Icon Water and the Unit Titles Reform Project Consultative Group to progress this proposal for new unit developments.
New requirements will apply to development applications lodged from 1 January 2025 for Class B units (generally townhouse type developments), and from 1 July 2028 for Class A units (generally multi-storey developments). Proponents can opt-in earlier to the new requirements if they choose.
Minister for Water, Energy and Emissions Reduction Shane Rattenbury said individual water metering will make the system fairer and encourage people to conserve water.
“Water is a finite resource, and we know that the ACT is sometimes impacted by extended dry periods which will only become more frequent and severe with climate change,” Minister Rattenbury said.
“Individual billing will allow each household to see how much water they use, enabling them to see where there might be opportunities to reduce water use. Using water more efficiently reduces environmental impacts and saving households money.
“Icon Water will be responsible for implementing the new metering system. Data will be collected from the meters by Icon Water to inform them to make decisions about water supply infrastructure, identify any leaks and support faster repairs.
“I look forward to seeing the benefits of the new metering system for apartment residents and the environment over the coming months and years,” said Minister Rattenbury.
For more information, visit the ACT Planning website.
*Quotes from a Labor Minister have been removed from the original ACT Government media release at his/her request