Understanding your quarterly water bill is more important than ever, especially if you live in The Hills District or nearby suburbs like Kellyville, Castle Hill, Rouse Hill, or Box Hill. With updated charges from Sydney Water now in effect for 2025–2026, this article explains exactly what you’re paying for, how your bill is calculated, and the recent positive changes in stormwater billing that could lower your total charges.

What Does a Typical Water Bill Include?

If you’re living in a freestanding house in The Hills District, your quarterly water bill typically includes a combination of:

• Water service charge (fixed)
• Water usage charge (per kilolitre used)
• Wastewater service charge (fixed)
• Stormwater service charge (fixed, if applicable)

These are fixed daily charges, tallied and billed quarterly. The number of days in each billing period affects the total slightly, with quarters like January having 90 days, April 91, and July and October 92.

Table: Sydney Water Charges (2025–2026)

💡 Typical total for a household using 50kL per quarter: Around $362.63, if stormwater applies.

You can use the Sydney Water fixed charges calculator to estimate your exact costs by entering your address.

Rouse Hill Stormwater Catchment :Charges Removed in 2025

If you live in the Rouse Hill stormwater catchment, which includes Kellyville Ridge, Box Hill, Beaumont Hills, Stanhope Gardens, The Ponds, North Kellyville, and other nearby suburbs, you’ll be pleased to hear that a major stormwater land charge was officially retired as of 1 October 2025.

This was a fixed charge applied to new customers from 2012–2025 to fund infrastructure like:

• Detention basins
• Wetlands
• Trunk drainage systems
• Gross pollutant traps and trash racks
• Creek and wetland restoration

Thanks to updated pricing determinations by IPART, these charges are now phased out, and developers now contribute through infrastructure contributions instead — not homeowners.

This change means lower bills and no double charging for families already connected to Sydney Water’s stormwater services in the Rouse Hill area.

Ways to Lower Your Water Bill

High water bills can result from unnoticed leaks, ageing fixtures, inefficient appliances, or excessive garden watering. Here’s how to gain control:

1. Fix Leaks Fast

A leaking toilet or dripping tap can waste thousands of litres a year. Even minor issues add up over time. The Plumbing Paramedics offer fast leak detection and repairs to keep your usage low.

2. Upgrade Old Fixtures

Older toilets, showerheads, and taps often use much more water than necessary. Upgrading to WELS-rated efficient fixtures helps save water without sacrificing performance.

3. Install Pressure Reduction Valves

In areas with high pressure, excess water can pass through fixtures unnecessarily. We can install pressure reduction valves to ensure optimal flow and lower water wastage.

What is WaterFix?

Sydney Water’s WaterFix program offers money-saving solutions by helping reduce water wastage in your home. If your bill seems higher than average, or you’re noticing leaks or drips, WaterFix can help by:

• Identifying and fixing hidden water leaks
• Replacing inefficient tapware and showerheads
• Installing dual-flush toilets or repairing leaking cisterns
• Checking irrigation systems for wastage

These services are performed by licensed plumbers, and you only pay for what you need. Sydney Water also offers flexible payment options, with no upfront costs for eligible customers.

You can learn more and check eligibility here: Sydney Water – WaterFix

And if you’re looking for a plumber to carry out the repairs or installations under the WaterFix program, The Plumbing Paramedics are licensed, local, and familiar with Sydney Water’s processes, making it easy and stress-free.

Need Help With High Water Bills?

If you’re in Castle Hill, Rouse Hill, Kellyville, or anywhere in The Hills District, The Plumbing Paramedics can help you:

• Investigate leaks or usage issues
• Replace outdated taps, toilets, and fixtures
• Identify and fix hidden problems with your meter, garden taps, or pipework
• Work with Sydney Water’s WaterFix program for eligible homes

We understand the local infrastructure, pricing structures, and drainage systems. Let us help you keep your bills low and your plumbing running smooth.

FAQs For Water Bills & Sydney Water Charges

What does the average Hills District household pay in water bills?

Most standalone homes in The Hills District pay around $360–$370 per quarter, depending on usage and stormwater area.

Do I have to pay stormwater charges?

Only if your home is in a stormwater catchment. Use Sydney Water’s stormwater map to check.

Can I reduce my bill by using less water?

Yes. Most of your bill comes from usage, so reducing water usage helps lower costs significantly.

What is the WaterFix program?

WaterFix is a Sydney Water initiative to reduce water waste through leak detection and efficient upgrades.

How can The Plumbing Paramedics help?

We’re licensed to repair water leaks, replace inefficient fittings, and assist with WaterFix work to help you save money.

What’s the benefit of the Rouse Hill stormwater charge being removed?

Homeowners no longer pay a fixed land charge. Instead, developers fund future infrastructure, which reduces your bill long term.