Sunwater’s annual report shows the utility has enjoyed a massive jump in revenue despite a drought in which Queensland irrigators are battling to stay in business.
As well as increased revenue, the annual report also shows the State Government-owned corporation has approved large CEO and corporate salary increases.
LNP Shadow Minister for Natural Resources Dale Last said Annastacia Palaszczuk should stop using farmers as cash cows.
"Water prices are skyrocketing and every cent Sunwater receives comes at the expense of water users who have to count every drop,” Mr Last said.
"Annastacia Palaszczuk is ultimately responsible for a 56 per cent rise in the Sunwater executive team’s pay – an income increase that most farmers can only dream of.”
The annual report shows:
Mr Last said the annual report also shows that skyrocketing electricity prices are putting pressure on Sunwater.
“Sunwater’s report shows that its electricity costs have jumped by $5m in five years – an extraordinary admission that Labor’s electricity rip-off is hurting the corporations it runs,” Mr Last said.
"It's time the Palaszczuk Labor Government pulled Sunwater into line and showed they are fair dinkum about providing affordable water to our farmers and regional communities across Queensland.
"Labor should ensure Sunwater invests in water assets and dams while supporting lower water prices for farmers.”
2018-19 Sunwater annual report: https://www.sunwater.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Home/About/Publications/Annual_Report_18-19.pdf
2013-14 Sunwater annual report: https://www.sunwater.com.au/wp-content/uploads/Home/About/Publications/Annual_Report_13-14.pdf