Water-savings targets mandatory for new homes from January 1: Fraser

December 16 2006

Water-savings targets mandatory for new homes from January 1: Fraser

The installation of rainwater tanks will be the easiest way to meet new mandatory water saving targets which will apply to all new houses in South-East Queensland from New Year’s day, Local Government and Planning Minister Andrew Fraser announced today.

Mr Fraser said the new mandatory regulation – which comes into effect from January 1 2007 - means all new detached houses in the south-east corner must aim to achieve savings of 70 kilolitres a year, while terrace houses and townhouses must aim to achieve savings of 42 kl per year.

“But, even though rainwater tanks are the simplest means of meeting the targets, they are just one of a variety of options including alternatives like dual reticulation, communal rainwater tanks or stormwater reuse,” Mr Fraser said.

“Councils will have the freedom to progress additional water-saving measures in their local government area and may choose to increase the water-saving targets when using dual reticulation, communal rainwater tanks or stormwater reuse.

“Councils will be able to opt out in areas where the requirements may not be appropriate, such as in areas of little or no rainfall.

“The current drought has impacted on large parts of the state and the Government recognises that we need to introduce sustainable long-term measures to save water.”

The mandatory water-saving targets set specific standards for rainwater tank installation:

• A minimum 5000-litre tank for detached houses
• A minimum 3000-litre tank for semi-detached houses (including townhouses and terrace houses)

“Through these targets, most new homes will now use rainwater to supply toilet cisterns and washing machines, which will take significant pressure off the reticulated town water supply.”

Mr Fraser said where rainwater tanks are used, the new regulation required that the catchment area for each rainwater tank equalled 100m2 or half of the dwelling’s total roof space - whichever was less.

The tanks must be plumbed internally to supply water to each dwelling’s toilet and washing machine. Devices that supply supplementary water from the reticulated town water supply must also be installed to ensure a continuous supply.

While the new regulation only applies to houses built after January 1, Mr Fraser encouraged all homeowners to consider installing rainwater tanks.

“Queensland is currently experiencing one of the worst droughts in our history.

“That, combined with climate change and population growth, has placed our water resources under enormous pressure.

“With water restrictions already in place in many areas of Queensland, more homeowners are using rainwater to keep their gardens green, wash their cars and for other uses around the house.

“The Government is working hard on building the water grid and doing everything in its power to provide water security for the long term.

“Mandatory water-saving targets are another important part of our strategy.”

Media Contact: Chris Taylor, 3227 8825 or 0419 710 874

Selina Steele 3224 6509 or 0405 767 659