The state government says SA Water prices will rise by 4.8 per cent in 2023-24, below the inflation rate of 7.9 per cent.

The rise means the average metropolitan household will pay an extra $53, while businesses will pay an average $202 extra.

But the government said this morning that if the price hikes were tied to CPI, the average household bill would have risen by $77, and $297 for businesses.

“This alternative price path will help South Australians manage the cost of living pressures, while still ensuring SA Water can continue to deliver quality water services, through operational and capital investment,” it said in a statement.

Environment and Water Minister Susan Close said that the Malinauskas Government had tried to ensure minimum price rises due to “many South Australian families struggling with cost of living pressures”.

In 2022-23, SA Water price increases were capped at an average 3.2 per cent, below the inflation rate

A full schedule of SA Water fees and charges will be available on its website from July 1.