The rebate is part of GVW’s Guaranteed Service Level’s wider commitment to accountability, transparency and community partnerships, reimbursing customers if service standards are not met.
After challenges during recent bushfires in Longwood, the community centre is adding a dedicated drinking water tank and associated infrastructure to improve emergency response capabilities.
While Murchison will see several projects benefit from the rebate, including irrigation improvements for the community garden, adaptive equipment for the bowls club, upgrades to tennis facilities, a fire unit for the golf club, and creative projects such as a waterside educational mural and an Indigenous art seat.
GVW general manager customers and growth Jonno Bellette said communities would benefit from the program when service expectations were not fulfilled.
“This program recognises that when we don’t meet the standards our customers expect, we have a responsibility to give back in a way that creates meaningful, long-term outcomes for those affected,” Mr Bellette said.
“As part of our current price plan, rebates are triggered if we don’t contain a sewer spill caused by our system within five hours or if a boil water notice is issued due to a fault. The Community Rebate Program allows us to reinvest those funds into initiatives that strengthen communities.”
Local community projects had to apply earlier this year to receive financial support.
Applications were assessed against criteria including community wellbeing, resilience, water awareness, emergency preparedness and support for vulnerable groups.
Mr Bellette said the projects reflected strong community insight and initiative.
“These projects demonstrate the important role local groups play in supporting their communities, particularly during challenging times. We are proud to support initiatives that not only respond to past events but help build stronger, more resilient towns into the future.”
There were three GSL breaches that initiated the 2025-26 program, with community groups invited to apply through a targeted process supported by GVW’s communications and engagement team.
For more information about the program, visit gvwater.vic.gov.au/community-rebate-program/community-rebate-program
