In July 2018, a new two-part water rating system was introduced to Mount Isa and Camooweal. Under the new system which includes an access and consumption charge, rate payers will for only pay for the water that is used on their property, giving them more control over the expenses they incur for water usage throughout the year.
The previous system charged all users a water allocation, the full extent of which was not used in many situations. This meant rate payers were paying for unused water within their allocation. The new system enables ratepayers to reduce their water cost by using less water.
From 1st July 2018, water is billed using a two-part charge consisting of:
- An access charge - this charge will show on your rates notice which is issued yearly. All properties connected to Council's water supply or capable of connection to the supply will pay an access charge.
- A consumption charge - this charge is based on the amount of water is used.
- Water meters for all properties in all water route groups, aside from groups 99 and 100 (generally Mount Isa residential and all of Camooweal) will be read on a half yearly basis.
- Water meters for all properties within water route groups 99 and 100 (generally Mount Isa non-residential properties) will be read on a quarterly basis.
More information on Water Charges can be found on the current Financial Year's Revenue Statement found here: Revenue Statement 2025-26(PDF, 738KB)
Leaks
Water Leaks that occur from water pipes and fittings on your side of the water meter are the responsibility of the Property Owner. One of the easiest ways to check to see whether you have a leak is by taking a water meter reading before leaving the house for a couple of hours, and taking another reading on your return.
When performing this test ensure you do not have the dishwasher, washing machine, watering system or evaporative air conditioning in use as these are using water and will be recorded through the meter.
On returning home the meter reading should not have changed. If the meter reading has increased (and you are certain that no water was used whilst absent) then this may be a sign that there is an internal leak and you should contact a licensed plumber as soon as possible. Any internal leaks and associated costs are the responsibility of the property owner. Council recognises concealed leaks can result in significant financial cost to the ratepayer, for further details on the concessions available and eligibility criteria please refer to Council's Concealed Water Leak Remission Policy.
Concealed Water Leaks
Council has adopted a Concealed Water Leak Remission Policy(PDF, 236KB) to assist ratepayers who experience financial hardship due to a concealed water leak on their property.
For further information on Council's Concealed Water Leak Remission Policy or if you would like to apply for a remission of water consumption charges due to a concealed water leak, please refer to the following:
Applications can be submitted via the following:
Email: city@mountisa.qld.gov.au
In person: 23 West Street Mount Isa
Mail:
CEO
Mount Isa City Council
PO Box 815
Mount Isa QLD 4825
Please ensure all required supporting documentation is submitted with your application.
Charging Water to Tenants in Residential Properties
Water Notices are issued to the owner of the property, tenants will not be billed directly by Mount Isa City Council.
Council cannot offer any advice regarding charging water to tenants, please contact your managing agent or visit the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) Website for further information.
Please note: State Bulk Water is not applicable to Mount Isa City Council.
Water Meter and Water Restriction Information
For information in relation to your Water Meter and Water Restrictions, please visit the below pages:
Water Meters
Water Restrictions