Financial assistance
We offer financial assistance to our residential customers who are having difficulty paying their water accounts because of a crisis. If this is you, you may be eligible for vouchers to assist with the water usage component of your water account.
Vouchers are issued in multiples of $25.00 and distributed through a number of partnered community agencies.
The payment assistance scheme is funded solely by Shoalhaven Water and is designed to assist customers in the short term only.
Eligibility
Any residential property owner or tenant connected to our town water supply who has an unpaid water account, is able to apply for payment assistance.
Community agencies
You don’t need to be a pre-existing client of an agency to gain support. Simply contact one of the agencies listed below to make an appointment.
How the agency can help
The agency may be able to provide payment vouchers to assist you in paying the water usage component of your water account; and they can also provide information on ways to reduce your water usage, to help save you money.
When you go to your appointment:
- Bring a copy of your current unpaid water account to the agency and they will assess the amount of payment vouchers that can be provided.
- The agent can discuss financial budgeting options and offer counselling services if required.
- They can also check eligibility for any concessions and rebates that may be available to you.
Payment assistance vouchers
How the vouchers work
Payment vouchers are issued in multiples of $25.00 and distributed through the community agencies.
If the agency has provided you with payment vouchers, simply present them along with your water account to the cashier at Shoalhaven City Council administration office in either Nowra or Ulladulla. Any issued vouchers must be presented within 30 days.
The vouchers may not cover the entire amount owing. You may still have an amount to contribute to the overall payment.
Vouchers are not transferrable and cannot be used for anything else.
Other payment options
Overdue water accounts can lead to flow restriction and interest accruing. Making small regular payments may be of assistance in managing your water account. You can use either of these options:
Centrepay deductions
Centrepay is a voluntary bill paying service that is free for Centrelink customers. Use Centrepay to arrange regular deductions from your Centrelink payment. You can start or change a deduction at any time.
Payment arrangements
Payment arrangements are recommended if you have found yourself with an outstanding water account. Entering a formal payment arrangement can help you make manageable payments to avoid flow restriction.