5 Star Service 
Many of us take our water supply for granted but, of course, it’s a commodity that we all have to pay for. Most people are noticing that their quarterly water bills are increasing regularly, and this could cause you to wonder where the money is going and whether everyone else’s bill is as high as yours.
If you want to find out how your water bills compare to the average cost, as well as discover ways that you can help to lower your water bill, this blog asks “how much is the average water bill?” and looks at ways that you can reduce it.
What costs does your water bill include?
Your water bill is formed of a number of different charges. In some areas, certain customers may also be subject to additional charges for non-drinking water. Some of the charges included in your water bill are payable even if you use no water at all, meaning you’ll never be able to completely reduce your water bill to nothing.
In the Gold Coast, the local council buys water from the local bulk supply owner. The council is then responsible for getting water into each individual property, and the costs associated with this are included in your water bill.
Water access charge
The water access charge is a fixed sum that pays for your property’s access to water. This is payable regardless of whether or not water is actually used.
Water usage charge
The water usage charge is determined by how much water you actually use, measured by your water meter. Meter readings are normally taken every three months in the Gold Coast. The water usage charge is divided into two parts – the actual cost of the water you used and the cost of delivering it to your property.
Sewerage access charge
This charge is another fixed cost for your property to access sewerage systems. Similarly to the water access charge, the sewerage access charge applies regardless of whether any sewage was discharged from the property.
How much is the average water bill?
The average quarterly water bill for households in 2023 stands at $208. Interestingly, households in Victoria enjoy the lowest average water bills, amounting to $191, while those in Queensland face the highest average at $240. It’s worth noting that various factors, such as household size, age group and income, can influence these averages.
Average water bill by state
Water bills can vary significantly based on the region or state due to factors such as local infrastructure, water supply sources and regional water conservation initiatives. The following table provides a snapshot of the average quarterly water bills across various states for the year 2023:
| State | Average Quarterly Water Bill (2023) |
|---|---|
|
Victoria |
$191 |
|
New South Wales |
$200 |
|
Western Australia |
$204 |
|
South Australia |
$205 |
|
Queensland |
$240 |
Average water bill by household size
The size of a household plays an important role in determining water consumption. Naturally, larger households tend to have higher water usage due to the increased number of occupants. The table below illustrates the average quarterly water bills for the year 2023, segmented by household size:
| Household Size | Average Quarterly Water Bill (2023) |
|---|---|
|
1 person |
$158 |
|
2 people |
$209 |
|
3 people |
$236 |
|
4 people |
$232 |
|
5 or more people |
$276 |
Forecast for 2024
While specific figures for 2024 are not yet available, the trend suggests a steady increase in water bills. Factors such as inflation, increased demand and infrastructure investments can contribute to this rise. You are advised to keep an eye out for any changes and potential solutions that may be introduced in 2024 to help moderate water bills.
What factors influence your water bill?
You’re likely to see your water bill change and fluctuate throughout the year. There are various factors that can cause your water bill to increase at certain times.
Seasonal usage
During the hot summer months, you’re more likely to use more water for things like taking extra showers, filling your pool, or watering your garden. Over time these costs can add up to a significant increase.
Water leaks
An undetected leak can sometimes be the cause of a bill that’s higher than you expected. An experienced plumber can help with detecting and repairing any leaks.
Changing habits
If your habits have recently changed and you’re now using more water, this will impact your bill. This could be something like having an extra person in the household or using your outdoor sprinklers for longer than usual.
Large appliances
Appliances like dishwashers or washing machines can use up a significant amount of water. Check the water efficiency label on your appliance to find out how much it needs to use. Installing a new appliance could be the cause of an increasing bill.
Where you live
Because you’re paying for access to water as well as delivery, the area you live in can be a factor. Residents in Brisbane and the Gold Coast could pay different amounts for using the same quantity of water. If you’ve recently moved to a new area and your water bill is higher than you expected, the location could be part of the reason.
Ways to reduce your water bill
The following are practical measures that you can implement to achieve significant savings on your water expenses:
Maintaining Efficient Plumbing Systems
One of the most effective ways to reduce your water bill is by ensuring your plumbing system is working optimally. Here’s how it can help:
- Leak Management: Leaks can silently escalate your water bills. Regular checks and swift repairs can prevent water wastage and inflating bills.
- Water-Efficient Appliances: Modern appliances and fixtures can significantly reduce water consumption. Consider incorporating low-flow showerheads and water-efficient washing machines.
- Regular Maintenance: A well-maintained plumbing system operates efficiently, conserving water and preventing wastage. Regular maintenance checks can identify potential issues before they escalate, saving both water and money.
Encouraging Water-Saving Habits
You can work to reduce how much water you use at home. Educate your family members about conserving water by encouraging habits like:
- Taking a shorter shower that lasts a maximum of four minutes.
- Turning off the tap while you brush your teeth.
- Using the dishwasher or washing machine only when you have a full load.
Queensland plumbing specialists
If you need reliable and qualified plumbers in Queensland, Oceanside Services can help. We offer a range of trustworthy plumbing services, including leak detection. We cover a wide service area including the Gold Coast and Brisbane. To book a job with us or find out more about the services we provide please contact us or book online.
