How we regulate the water sector

We promote the long-term interests of Victorian consumers in the water sector by: 

• assessing and approving water prices
• developing water codes and guidelines that specify service standards for water businesses
• monitoring the performance of water through sector performance reports
• conducting inquiries, studies and reviews on the water industry as required.

We regulate water through a framework and several key pieces of legislation

Our PREMO water pricing framework puts customers at the centre of a water business's decision making. We also review how the framework is performing over time.

Our role in approving prices, specifying service standards and reporting on performance are all given to us through:

• the Water Industry Act 1994
• the Act's Water Industry Regulatory Order. 

The Water Industry Act 1994 and the Water Act 1989 are administered by the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning. These documents set out consumer obligations when dealing with water businesses, including:

• providing notice to water businesses if you move premises
• observing restrictions imposed by water businesses
• ensuring your water meter is accessible
• removing trees on request
• not altering any works connected to the water businesses’ works without the businesses’ consent.

The Minister for Water is the portfolio minister for the Victorian water industry.

Read more about how we regulate.