The South Australian Government has passed the Water Industry Act that forms part of the largest overhaul of the State’s water sector in its history.

 

“The passage of this legislation which combines several acts of parliament, will deliver a more efficiency, competitive and innovative water industry in South Australia,” State Water Minister Paul Caica said.

 

The legislation will see the establishment of an independent umpire, giving the Essential Services Commission of South Australia the power to regulate pricing and standards for water and sewerage services.

 

It will also establish a Water Industry Ombudsman, a Consumer Advisory Committee and a Consumer Advocacy and Research Fund.

 

Mr Caica said the State Government conducted two rounds of consultation to give the community, local government and industry an opportunity to comment before the draft Water Industry Bill was introduced to Parliament in July last year.

 

“We received advice from several experts including Professor Mike Young, Chief Scientist Don Bursill, the Local Government Association, the Water Industry Alliance, the South Australian Council of Social Services, the Council on the Ageing Seniors Voice, the Conservation Council of South Australia and the Plumbing Industry Association,’’ he said.