City West Water's regulators establish the legal and regulatory frameworks under which our business operates.
City West Water is a Victorian Government State Owned Company. Our Licence, which is issued by Government, is regulated by the industry watchdog, the Essential Service Commission (ESC). The Office ESC is responsible for regulating customer service standards in accordance with legislation and government policy.
City West Water reports to the ESC against a range of performance data. The ESC conducts independent external audits to ensure we are complying with our Licence standards, and publishes annual comparative reports on our performance and that of the other metropolitan water companies.
The Government maintains a Governance Branch within the Department of Treasury and Finance (DTF) to oversee shareholder matters. The Governance Branch advises the Treasurer on the performance of Government Business Enterprises (GBEs) and manages cashflow forecasting, monitoring and reporting of dividend, tax equivalent and financial accommodation levy payments by GBEs. It also advises on the suitability and appointment of members to GBE boards.
City West Water provides quarterly reports and presentations to DTF on its performance. The Company pays an annual dividend, makes tax equivalent payments and consults on any proposed changes that will impact on the viability of the business.
The Department of Sustainability and Environment is responsible for setting the legislative and regulatory framework that City West Water operates within, including the establishment of legal and regulatory frameworks such as the Water Industry Act 1994, issuing of our Licence, reviewing and setting of prices and decision-making on water industry changes.
City West Water's commitment to environmental management is enshrined in its Environmental Management System. We are guided by the Environment Protection Act 1970 and subordinate legislation. The Act is the most significant environmental legislation in the state and is administered by the Environmental protection Authority Victoria. EPA regulates the conditions for discharge to water, air and land, and issues penalties for non-compliance with these conditions. Regulation occurs through licensing, with EPA issuing licences for waste water treatment plants, such as City West Water's Altona Treatment Plant.
City West Water defers to EPA on any licence related or operational issues that can impact upon the environment. We meet regularly with EPA to discuss operational issues and to monitor agreed targets and actions. EPA also participates in our community liaison forums.