Stop the dividends: Councils broke Tasmania's water system
TasWater has paid $120 million in dividends to Tasmanian councils while charging homebuyers fees on undeveloped blocks. Critics argue this financial structure is breaking the state's water system.
$120 million paid in dividends to Tasmanian councils by TasWater, while fees are charged on empty residential blocks.
Is TasWater's dividend model making it harder and more expensive to build in Tasmania?
Plumbers and builders in Tasmania face project delays and cost blowouts tied to TasWater's strained infrastructure. New housing developments may be harder to connect and more expensive to service.
Key takeaways
- TasWater has paid $120 million in dividends to councils, drawing funds away from infrastructure investment.
- Homebuyers are being charged fees on undeveloped blocks, adding cost before a project even starts.
- The water utility's financial structure is being blamed for degrading service and infrastructure quality.
- Builders and plumbers in Tasmania may face greater connection hurdles as the system comes under strain.
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