The Queensland Competition Authority (QCA), an independent economic regulator, will review Queensland’s irrigation pricing to allow for greater transparency.
Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy, Dr Anthony Lynham, said a comprehensive study by the QCA would underpin the irrigation pricing structures for years 2020–24.
“The goal is for irrigators to have greater pricing certainty, simplicity and transparency to allow them to plan for future years,’’ Dr Lynham said.
“As part of the review process, extensive consultation will be undertaken with stakeholders and water users to ensure we strike the right balance between the interests of customers and businesses.
“The QCA will be required to limit annual price increases similar to previous reviews.
“I encourage all SunWater and Seqwater irrigation customers to get involved in the QCA consultation process.
“The more customers that participate in the process, the more informed the government will be when it is time to consider the QCA recommendations and lock in irrigation prices in 2020.”
Prices currently in place for 2018–19 will be adjusted for another year in line with past price path arrangements.
The government will begin its consideration of future prices with the release of the QCA’s draft report in August 2019.
