September → October 2024

Financial viability assessments

Councils assess their standalone financial positions 

All councils have assessed their own standalone financial positions and discussed with the Department. 

Councils have completed a stocktake of their current water services delivery arrangements and understand where information gaps are.

November 2024 → January 2025

Financial sustainability and delivery model

Councils are considering their preferred delivery model and exploring alternative models. Councils are discussing with the Department how they plan to address any barriers to financial sustainability.

February → April 2025

Community consultation

Councils have decided on their preferred delivery model and have begun consultation with their communities. 

Some councils may undertake consultation at a later date alongside their annual Plan.

May → July 2025

Finalise Plans for submission

Councils are finalising their Plans for submission to the Department. 

Councils can request the Department to review their draft Plan. 

Councils that require an extension have requested an extension (before 3 Aug 2025).

August → September 2025

Department review and acceptance of Plans

Councils submit their final Plans (by 3 Sep 2025). The Department communicates either acceptance or need to resubmit. Clear pathways of support are identified to ensure all Plans are received by 3 Sep 2025.