South Gippsland Water (SGW) is reminding customers to check their new account reference number when paying their water bill, following the introduction of the organisation’s new billing system in July 2025. Since the system launch, all customers have now been issued a new 11-digit account reference number. Payments made using an old reference number from […]

South Gippsland Water (SGW) is reminding customers to check their new account reference number when paying their water bill, following the introduction of the organisation’s new billing system in July 2025.

Since the system launch, all customers have now been issued a new 11-digit account reference number. Payments made using an old reference number from bills issued prior to July 2025 will no longer process against current accounts.

SGW Managing Director, Robert Murphy, acknowledged the transition has required adjustment and thanked customers for their patience.

“We understand that changing account reference numbers can be frustrating, particularly for customers who have established automatic or recurring payment arrangements,” Mr Murphy said.

“However, updating to the new reference number is essential to ensure payments are received and allocated correctly under our upgraded billing system.”

The new 11-digit reference number is clearly displayed on the back page of customer bills under the ‘How to Pay’ section (BPAY details).

This change affects customers who pay their bill using:

  • Internet banking (BPAY)
  • Credit or debit card payments via the South Gippsland Water website payment portal or telephone payment line
  • Centrepay automatic payments via Centrelink
  • Australia Post payment cards

Customers with Australia Post payment cards displaying the old account reference number are encouraged to contact SGW to arrange for a replacement card to be issued.

Mr Murphy reassured customers that support is readily available.

“Our team is here to help anyone who is unsure about their new reference number or needs assistance updating their payment details,” he said.

“We appreciate the community’s cooperation as we continue improving our systems to provide a more reliable and efficient service.”

For more information, customers can visit www.sgwater.com.au or contact the SGW Customer Service team on 1300 851 636.