Urgent Assistance for Equitable Sewerage Services for the Lake Macquarie Residents
Petitioner:
Ms Jolanta Czerwonka
| Member:
Piper, Greg
| No. of Signatories:
238
| Date closed:
23/08/2024
To the Speaker and Members of the Legislative Assembly,
We the undersigned petitioners are bringing to your attention a critical issue impacting residents in the Lake Macquarie area, especially those in Blackalls Park, Awaba, Wyee, West Wallsend, Seahampton, and surrounding areas. Recently, Lake Macquarie Council decided to cease septic tank pump-out services, shifting the responsibility to residents after 35 years of council assistance. This abrupt decision has led to a substantial financial burden, with pump-out costs soaring. Additionally, the absence of sewerage system provision by Hunter Water exacerbates the situation.
While residents elsewhere pay around $1500 annually for sewer services, we now face costs exceeding $5000 per year merely for basic sanitation maintenance. This financial strain exceeds our means and jeopardises our access to essential services.
We ask the Legislative Assembly to call on the Government to urgently intervene and advocate for the reinstatement of essential sewerage services by Lake Macquarie Council and Hunter Water to ensure equitable access to sewerage systems for all residents in our area.
Prompt action from the Legislative Assembly is crucial as the financial strain and community stress continue to escalate. We trust in their commitment to representing our best interests and eagerly await your support in resolving this urgent matter.
Thank you for your attention to this pressing issue.