East Gippsland Water is boosting awareness of its local support programs and community initiatives following direct feedback from its annual customer satisfaction survey.
While local customers continue to report high satisfaction with core water and sewerage service delivery, the survey revealed that many residents wanted greater visibility into the water corporation’s broader contributions across Lakes Entrance and surrounding coastal townships.
East Gippsland Water general manager customer, community and communications, David Radford, said the organisation is committed to fostering strong, connected, and resilient local communities.
“Our customers know us as a provider of essential services, but many are surprised by the breadth of support we provide to community organisations and local initiatives across East Gippsland,” Mr Radford said.
“Feedback from our customer satisfaction survey indicated people would like to know more about how we’re contributing to the communities we serve, so we’re increasing awareness of these programs and expanding opportunities for face-to-face engagement.”
As part of the initiative, East Gippsland Water is expanding its Customer Connect pop-up sessions at local markets and community events across the Lakes Entrance district, giving residents a direct avenue to meet staff, ask billing questions, and discuss water management closer to home.
The water corporation also continues to provide targeted financial assistance to local community groups and volunteers. Across the region, East Gippsland Water has assisted 630 not-for-profit customers in securing the Victorian Government’s Water and Sewerage Rebate Scheme, providing eligible organisations with up to $260 off the service charge component of their annual water bill. A further 36 community organisations receive a direct 25 per cent annual rebate on their water and sewer charges.
Through its annual Community Support Program, the organisation delivered $26,000 in sponsorship funding during the 2025-26 financial year to support regional events, sports clubs, and local initiatives — including past and ongoing support for community events in Lakes Entrance.
Local event organisers in Lakes Entrance can also access in-kind support through the free hire of portable drinking stations, helping keep community events hydrated while reducing single-use plastic waste.
“We’re proud of the many ways we’re able to support our community, whether it’s assisting local groups with their water bills, sponsoring local events, or meeting customers face-to-face,” Mr Radford said.
