Coober Pedy, a small opal mining town in South Australia, is set to see a significant change in its water management as SA Water takes over the aging water infrastructure. The current system, which was built by locals in the 1970s, has been plagued by leaks, resulting in excessive water bills for the town's roughly 1,500 residents. Currently, residents are paying a staggering $9 per kilolitre, which is three times higher than the state average of $2.36 for SA Water customers. This situation has made water one of the most expensive utilities for the local community.

Planning Minister Nick Champion has announced that the takeover by SA Water is expected to make water cheaper for residents, although the local ratepayers' group remains cautious and is waiting to see the tangible effects of this transition. The change is anticipated to occur before the year ends; however, repairing the damaged infrastructure will likely take longer. The state government aims to address the ongoing inefficiencies in the water supply, which has not only been a financial burden but has also affected the overall quality of life in Coober Pedy.

This transition in water management is crucial for Coober Pedy, where high water costs have been a longstanding issue. If successful, the integration of SA Water's resources and expertise could not only alleviate the financial strain on residents but could also improve the overall functionality of the town's water services. With the local community eagerly awaiting the outcomes, this change could set a precedent for managing other outdated utilities in remote areas of Australia.