Oct - 2007 Water Restrictions Update

Over the course of 2007 water restrictions have been a constant focus point of discussions and headlines nationally. The winter period is all but gone and since the last phase of upgrades across the country, restrictions have shown no sign of easing. Tightening water consumption has been a part of our lives for the last few years and with the summer months approaching, it’s important to know where we stand now and what the future holds.

Victoria
Restrictions at level 3a have been put in place for several months now as dam levels stand at 38.9%. The stage four trigger point is around 29% and rainfall levels are again on the way down. New government initiatives for the state include:

A 150 billion litre desalination plant to provide water for Melbourne, Geelong, Westernport and Wonthaggi

For more information see: www.melbournewater.com.au

South East Queensland
Combined water levels for south east Queensland are some of the lowest in the nation currently at 21.41%. Restrictions are at Level 5 and the state government is launching vigorous campaigns setting state goals for water saving such as campaign to achieve a regional average water use of 140 liters per person per day.

For more information see: www.qwc.qld.gov.au

New South Wales
Water restrictions stand at level 3 and dam levels are at 58.9%. Across greater Sydney more than 20 schemes recycle around 22 billion litres of wastewater a year for home use, irrigation, agriculture and industry, including Sydney Water's own sewage treatment plant operations. By 2015 recycling will increase to 70 billion litres a year.

For more information see: www.sydneywater.com.au

ACT
Water levels are at 42.83% and restrictions are at stage 3. The ACTEW is well into preparations for stage 4 and are aiming to:

• Work with the ACT government to maintain some local sporting grounds
• Help the community understand ways to save water, and to use recycled and other non-potable water (such as household grey water)
• Improve access to recycled water

For more information see: www.actew.com.au

Western Australia
Dam Levels are at 36.9% with the current status standing at permanent measures being put in place. The state is currently on a water saving scheme with segregated watering days for people to follow. As of October 1st, a permanent watering roster will be implemented based on specified zones.

For more information see: www.waterwisewaysforwa.com.au

South Australia
There is currently a ban on outdoor watering for housing, however there are changes that are about to be implemented: As of 1 October 2007, the householders will be able to use drippers and hand-held hoses fitted with trigger nozzles for three hours a week for gardening. The following timeframes will be in place:

• Even numbered houses - Saturday 6-9am or 5-8pm
• Odd numbered houses - Sunday 6-9am or 5-8pm

Sprinklers and other watering systems will continue to be banned. The existing regime for those holding permits due to age or disability will apply to allow the use of a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle on any day 6-10am or 4pm-midnight. All other Level 3 restrictions will continue to apply. Until 1 October, the temporary ban on outdoor watering remains.

For more information see: www.sawater.com.au

Currently Tasmania and Northern Territory are on far more relaxed water schemes, for information see:
www.powerwater.com.au (Northern Territory)
www.dpiw.tas.gov.au (Tasmania)