Water restrictions
Changing rainfall patterns and drought as a result of climate change has meant Australians have become accustomed to living with water restrictions. Water restrictions are essential to ensure health, safe and reliable water supplies in times of low water availability and assisting communities to manage water better.
The stages of water restriction vary and are generally set by state and territory Governments. Your local metropolitan or regional water authority is responsible for implementing water restrictions, depending on how much rain there currently is in the water catchment area near where you live. They are usually seasonal meaning you will probably be on a higher water restriction level in summer, when there is very little rain.
Penalties apply if you don't follow the rules so it’s important to be aware of the formal restrictions and to adopt water wise behaviours as part of your daily activities. Exemptions may be in place for those with special needs and restrictions do not apply if you are using rainwater or bore water. Check with your water authority or local council what restrictions currently affect you.
Activities that could be affected by water restrictions
What you can use your tap water for changes according to what level of water restriction you are currently on, but there are some common restrictions.
Watering your garden
You may have to limit when you water your garden. Often watering times will be restricted to specific times of the day, and to specific days of the week. This is worked out fairly by what is called the odds and evens system - odd numbered houses on your street can water on the odd calendar days of the month, and even numbered houses on your street water their gardens on even numbered days.
By installing a rainwater tank you can replace tap water with rainwater to water your garden and to help reduce your water bills.
Washing your car
Washing your car on the street causes a lot of drinking water to go down the drain. If you do need to wash your car or bike, wash it on the lawn so that the grass gets a watering at the same time. Some water restriction levels mean you can wash your car, but you must use a bucket and not a hose. If your area is on a higher restriction level, you may not be allowed to wash your car at home. In this case, you can take your car to a commercial car wash, where the water is recycled.
Washing windows and lights
If your area is on the highest level of restrictions you may not be allowed to wash your external windows and lights. You can clean windows and external lights effectively with a little white vinegar and newspaper.
Water for a pool or spa
Swimming pools and spas use a lot of water. You may need to apply to fill a new pool and have a water conservation plan submitted with your local council or local water authority. If your pool or spa needs topping up, you might be allowed to do this with a hand-held hose fitted with a trigger nozzle. If you have high water restrictions in your area you may need to purchase external water to fill up your new pool or spa.
Permanent water-saving measures
Your state or territory may have some permanent water restrictions in operation throughout the year, such as:
- Set times when you are allowed to water your garden - usually morning and evening to avoid hot times of the day when evaporation is highest.
- Requiring all hand-held hoses to be fitted with trigger nozzles, which means they can’t be left on accidentally.
- Not using tap water to wash driveways or paths.
- The use of some less efficient types of watering systems in your garden.
Check with your local council or water authority for details about permanent water-saving measures.
More ways you can save on your water use
You can save water all the time by:
- reducing the amount of water you use inside by fitting water-efficient showerheads, toilets, taps and appliances
- planning your garden for our dry continent. Save on outdoor water use by reducing grassy areas and planting low-maintenance or native species
- using mulch on all your garden beds to help water retention and look for attractive natural alternatives to paving areas, as they can get hot and dry out nearby soils
- sweeping your paths and driveways, and putting the debris into your compost bin
- re-using your water indoors and outdoors where possible, rather than letting it go down the drain. Keep buckets handy in the shower or laundry to keep this in the front of your mind.
More information
See these resources for more information on water restrictions:
Your state or territory government and your local water authority will have information on targets and the water saving actions you can take at home.
Rebates & assistance
As a home owner, renter or landlord, you could be eligible for financial assistance to help you start living greener.
Find out about government rebates and assistance.
Why do it?
- Help save our most precious resource
- Pass on your good water saving habits to others
- Follow water restrictions to make sure you're not breaking the law
Did you know?
Water is used for everything from washing and cooking to irrigating crops and generating electricity. Water is also essential for maintaining the health of natural systems, which in turn support us.
What can I do?
Take Action
Page last modified: 17 Jun 2010