By Aneeka Simonis
VICTIMS of domestic violence may be eligible for rebates on their water bill and free plumbing services.
South East Water (SEW), which services the Cardinia Shire region, has a program designed to support customers experiencing financial or personal hardship, such as those facing family violence.
Water bills can be slashed under the program for concession card holders, partly paid for by the Department of Human Services, and free water audit services may also be provided to struggling households.
A spokesperson for South East Water said “depending on the findings of the water audit, and the customer’s circumstances, we may help customers with costs associated with replacing taps and washers, or the installation of more efficient shower heads or similar fixtures.”
More than $300 can be slashed from annual water and sewerage charges under the 2016-’17 scheme.
Other support services include increased time to pay bills, tailored payment arrangements, assistance applying and filling out government grant forms and concessions and financial advice.
More than 3600 households accessed these services in 2015-’16.
The program – which is also offered to those with health problems, unemployment or a physical or mental disability – is co-ordinated by SEW’s Assist team who have been trained to pick up on customer signs of hardship including vulnerable phrases, triggers and behaviours.
It’s understood water payment programs offered by SEW are looked at being rolled out across all Victorian water services, given customers do not have a choice on service providers.
