$1.2 million support package to benefit Western Australians with incontinence

• 180,000 litre per annum water allowance for eligible customers with incontinence
• Severe continence issues typically result in higher water use
• Some health conditions increase the risk of developing incontinence

Water Minister Dave Kelly today announced that households with a recipient of the Continence Aids Payment Scheme (CAPS) will be eligible for Water Corporation's Medical Assist program.

CAPS is an Australian Government scheme that helps cover the cost of continence products, such as bedding, clothing and towelling. Water consumption is typically significantly higher due to increased hygiene and laundry needs.

According to the Continence Foundation of Australia, some health conditions, including chronic heart failure, Parkinson's disease and stroke, can increase the risk of developing severe incontinence.

Under the $1.2 million Water Corporation support measure, around 3,300 Western Australians with severe and permanent incontinence will also now be eligible for a substantial allowance to help offset their higher water use.

This program waives up to 180,000 litres of water consumption per year (30,000 litres per two-monthly bill), saving each recipient annually on average more than $380.

The Medical Assist eligibility criteria and application form are available on Water Corporation's website at: https://www.watercorporation.com.au/medicalassist

Comments attributed to Water Minister Dave Kelly:

"Funded by the McGowan Government, Water Corporation's Medical Assist program currently benefits customers receiving kidney dialysis at home, and the long-term aim has been to expand it to other medical conditions that result in higher water use.

"Incontinence has quite significant financial implications that further impact quality of life. This allowance, which equates to more than half the average water consumption of Medical Assist customers, will substantially reduce their water bills.

"I commend Water Corporation for addressing this genuine need that will help alleviate some of the financial worry for the thousands of Western Australians with severe and permanent continence issues."

Comments attributed to Health Minister Roger Cook:

"Incontinence is becoming more prevalent with an ageing population but it can affect people of all ages.

"People with severe incontinence typically use significantly more water, as a result of their condition, so Water Corporation's allowance is a welcome measure to help offset the cost of continence care."

Water Minister's office - 6552 6100

Health Minister's office - 6552 6500