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What You Can Do

In the Home

For $22, the Sydney Water Waterfix program will send a professional plumber to your home (in the Sydney area) to ensure your taps and fittings are water efficient. The cost includes parts and is the most cost effective way to save water around the home.

If you are handy, contact Sydney Water to receive a free Do-It-Yourself (DIY) water saving kit. Sydney Water also offer rebates for customers who purchase and install a rainwater tanks or a water efficient washing machine.

If you have a garden, the Sydney Water Love Your Garden program will send a qualified horticulturist to advise on suitable plants and watering needs.

For more information, visit the Sydney Water website:

WaterFix your home

Washing Machine Rebate

Rainwater Tank Rebate

Get a free Water Saving Kit

Love Your Garden


Information on dual flush toilets rebates is available on the Department of Energy and Water website.

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GreenHome

GreenhomeGreenHome is the Australian Conservation Foundation's (ACF) sustainable living program that helps reduce your impact on the environment by making positive changes at home and in your lifestyle.

Visit acfonline.org.au/greenhome and discover simple ways to make a difference at home - from saving energy and water, as well as reducing waste, to creating a sustainable garden, green shopping and cleaning. You can also measure your environmental footprint and choose the actions you want to take at home and go into the draw to win great prizes.

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Rainwater Tanks

Rainwater tanks are a cost effective way to reduce your mains water usage and also the amount of stormwater runoff from your house. The water can be used for most household purposes relatively easily.

Sydney Water offers rebates for rainwater tanks both at home and in schools. To check if you are eligible for a cash rebate in the home or for schools visit the Sydney Water website.

Some financial institutions are now providing interest free loans for rainwater tank installations. It is suggested that you search the internet with the criteria: "water tank loans interest free" to find some of these providers.

Generally speaking, households in the City of Sydney Local Government Area can install rainwater tanks up to 10,000L capacity without development approval from Council providing that the requirements of State Environmental Planning Policy 4 (part 4, clause 16) are met. For more information click here.

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In your Garden

For $33 - $55, Sydney Water’s Love your Garden service will send a qualified horticulturist to your home to evaluate your garden’s precise watering needs. Visit the the Sydney Water website for more information about this service.

The site also has information on selecting plants that are suited to your area and will use less water. By choosing plants that are suited to your local soil and weather conditions, you can save water without restricting your choice of garden design.

Native plants are particularly well adapted to variable patterns in rainfall with the added benefit of providing food and habitat for native birds and wildlife.

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Water Efficient Fittings and Appliances

Water ratings labelChoosing a water-efficient product is one way to save water while saving money. The Water Efficiency Labeling and Standards (WELS) Scheme can assist purchasers of household water-using products to compare the relative water efficiency of the available models.

Like the energy labeling we are used to on appliances, the WELS Water Rating label displays a rating of 1 to 6 stars (or 'Zero Star Rated') and a water consumption figure. This label replaces the Water Conservation Rating 'AAAAA' label currently appearing on some household water-using products.

See www.waterrating.gov.au for more information.

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Avoid Pollution

Oils, grease, litter, organic matter, paints, heavy metals and sediments are just some of the pollutants that can end up in our harbours and waterways. The best way is to prevent the problems at the source and keep areas clean.

The City has prepared guidelines which can be downloaded below. To report pollution incidents, such as dirty water, oil or paint in a stormwater drain, call the City of Sydney on 9265 9333.

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Downloads

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Last Updated: Wednesday 30 September, 2009

Please Note:
While care is taken to ensure accuracy, the City of Sydney cannot guarantee that information expressed here is correct and recommends that users exercise their own skill and care with respect to its use. The City of Sydney makes no warranty or undertaking, whether expressed or implied, nor does it assume any legal liability, whether direct or indirect.