The long-term sustainability of our water resources as an issue of primary importance, requiring continual monitoring.
Council has adopted a policy on water restrictions and drought management which took effect from March 2009.
Council has set the targets for per capita consumption outlined in this document and is committed to achieving these targets to ensure future generations have a cost effective, sustainable water supply system.
The objective of the Council's Policy is to provide an operational framework to manage the risk of failure to water supply in circumstances where low rainfall, system failures or water quality restrict or limit the ability to supply water.
The purpose of this strategy is to:
- Encourage the Council's customers and the wider community to conserve water and use it wisely;
- Outline the Western Downs Regional Council's approved plans for regulating the use of water from the various water supply systems under Council's control during periods of water shortage;
- Identify other water sources and actions that the Council will consider during periods of extreme drought to maintain essential water services sufficient to ensure minimum health requirements; and
- Comply with the requirements of Chapter 3 of Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008.
DRC Drought Management Plan
Regional Water Restriction Schedule
To comply with the requirements of the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 Council is required to enforce watering restrictions to all users, including potable and non-potable users, connected to a Council water supply.
Council has adopted a new regional water restriction schedule which replaces all previous schedules adopted prior to amalgamation.
The new restriction policy will be introduced to communities over the coming months and is planned to be fully implemented by 1st July 2009.
Residents will be notified of changes to current restriction levels through public notices in local newspapers or community newsletters and through a community flyer drop.
DRC Water Restriction Policy
For More Information
If you would like any further information on Council's new Water Restriction Policy please contact Council's Utilities Marketing Officer on 1300 COUNCIL (1300 268 624).
Copies are available for perusal at Customer Service Centres.
