Published on 15 April 2026
Community members may have noticed an increase on the most recently issued water bills throughout Lachlan Shire. While there were no changes to pricing structures from the previous billing period, meter reads were carried out a month later than usual, at 5 months rather than 4 months of usage. This delay was due to internal Council resources focusing on repairs within the network. The aged water systems also required regular backwashing in response to extreme temperatures and increased water demand over the summer months. The next billing period will be shorter to bring the bill issue date back to the original schedule.
Prior to bills being issued it is normal practice for large differences in water meter reads from one bill to the next to be reviewed. Where deemed necessary, staff are sent to carry out re-reads before bills issue. For suspected water leaks, Council will initially make contact to residents via letter.
For genuine cases of hardship residents can contact Council’s rating department to arrange a payment plan. Residents can also check their own meter reading and daily usage to determine whether it is out of step with their bill details and can seek a review of their accounts at any time and in any billing period.
For information on how to read your water meter, check for leaks, and steps if a water leak is identified, please visit https://www.lachlan.nsw.gov.au/Everyday-Living/Residents/Water-Billing or contact Council on 02 6895 1900.