‘Review’ set for BW cost

MICHELLE HERBISON
CONSULTANTS will review Barwon Water for “cost savings”, according to new chairman Michael King.
He said accounting and advisory firm BDO would run an “efficiency and effectiveness review” for savings “across the entire organisation”.
Mr King said the review would follow a series of price hikes in the past five years to deliver “water security”.
“Having met that objective, the board will now refocus on driving down prices while meeting growth, maintaining service standards and servicing debt.”
Mr King said the authorities pending “water plan three” would focus on affordable pricing.
“The plan will drive corporate direction and operational activities between 2013 and 2018 while addressing new challenges such as rapid population growth and increasing urbanisation. Barwon Water is aware of cost-of-living pressures on the community and the potential impact of any future water, sewerage and recycled water prices.”
Opposition water spokesperson John Lenders called on Premier Ted Baillieu to “make it clear” whether the review would cost jobs.
“This government has a mantra of productivity. On the face of it that’s to be encouraged but we should be very wary at the moment in Geelong given the uncertainty over Alcoa, Ford and Qantas jobs,” Mr Lenders said.