Darwin's water conservation future

01 Jun 2007

The Power and Water Corporation’s Water Management Survey results were released this week.

The survey, which accompanied the launch of the “Darwin Water Story” began in December 2006 and closed on World Water Day in March 2007.

Across the nation water availability is at historic lows. While other states face level five restrictions Darwin residents use around three times the amount of water than households across other capital cities. Though the Darwin River Dam is almost full after two consecutive years of heavy rains during the wet season, heavy wet seasons cannot be guaranteed. 

“Results from the 610 surveys completed found that about 60 per cent of residents and businesses believed water conservation in Darwin is critical,’’ PWC General Manager Water Services Paul Heaton said.

“The survey also showed that 85 per cent of people felt it was socially responsible for them to monitor water use.’’

Mr Heaton said respondents also felt organisations such as the Power and Water Corporation, Government and Local Councils must lead by example in the application of water efficient practices, and that all new developments and buildings should incorporate water efficient measures and devices.

There was widespread interest in the use of rainwater tanks and grey-water reuse systems, however there was also considerable confusion about the rules and restrictions associated with the use of these systems.

In general, the survey found that women and older residents (>50 years of age) of Darwin are more focused and active on water conservation than their younger and male counterparts. 

In response to these findings Power and Water:

• Plans to include additional information on water bills comparing water use for the billing period with the same period in previous years, and with both typical, and water efficient customers.  This new information will be included in water bills from August this year.
• Has established information on its internet site explaining how rainwater tanks and grey-water reuse systems may be developed and used in the Northern Territory.

Power and Water is undertaking further analysis of the results and plans to incorporate these findings into awareness campaigns currently under development, and potential future initiatives under consideration.

NB.  The Commonwealth Government has just opened another round of Community Water Grant applications for community based organisations to gain funding of up to $50,000 for water conservation programs.  Further information is available from www.communitywatergrants.gov.au  Power and Water is happy to help with the preparation of applications and provision of letters of support for worthwhile projects.