IPART is seeking feedback on key issues related to the developer charges framework for metropolitan water businesses.
Tribunal Member Sharon Henrick said IPART is reviewing whether the current framework strikes the right balance between flexibility, transparency and cost recovery, particularly as demand patterns and infrastructure needs evolve.
“The review will consider how water businesses recover the costs of connecting, extending and upgrading water, wastewater, drainage and recycled water services for new developments.”
“We are seeking feedback on a range of key issues, including how new development costs should be allocated between developers and existing customers, and how emerging high-demand water users such as data centres affect infrastructure and water needs.” Ms Henrick said.
Developer charges help water businesses recover the net costs of delivering services to new developments from developers.
Ms Henrick said they play an important role in ensuring new developments pay their fair share of infrastructure costs, while protecting existing customers in other areas from higher bills.
“Developer charges send important price signals about the cost of servicing growth in different locations and allow water infrastructure to be funded in a fair and efficient way.”
Stakeholders are invited to provide written submissions on the Issues Paper via IPART’s website by Monday 6 July 2026. Submissions will inform our Position Paper, which is expected to be released for further consultation in late 2026.
Stakeholders can sign up to receive updates on the review, or find more information, via IPART’s website.
Media Contact: Mark O’Brien
0427 105 865
media@ipart.nsw.gov.au