Water Night returns on Thursday, 23 October, and Power and Water Corporation is encouraging Territorians to sign up to the national event to raise awareness about how much water we use.

New research by the Water Conservancy shows Aussies use way more water than we think, including in the shower. More than two-thirds of Australians (67%) shower for five minutes or more and almost one in five (18%) take 10-15-minute showers, sending up to 135 litres down the drain each time. Over the course of a year, that’s enough water to fill a swimming pool.

Darwin residents are the highest water users in the country, with Top End households using almost 400kL of water per annum. This is around double the amount used in households in Melbourne, Adelaide and Sydney, and significantly more than households in locations with a similar climate, such as Townsville and Cairns.

Water Night involves turning your taps off – and leaving them off – between 5pm-10pm on 23 October, to help raise awareness of how often you use water.

Power and Water Manager Water Demand, Joel Spry, said signing up to Water Night is a simple yet powerful way to pause, reflect and become more mindful of water habits.

‘The new Water Conservancy research highlights a knowledge gap between people’s good intentions and the actions needed to make a real difference,’ he said.

‘That’s why we’re inviting Territorians to join Australians across the country to turn off their taps on Water Night and take a moment to really think about how much water we use – and how much we waste.

‘Whether it’s shortening a shower or holding off on the hose, every drop saved counts. By taking part, we can all help reduce waste and protect this vital resource.’

According to the National Climate Risk Assessment, the current risk to water security in Australia is high. The risk is expected to increase to very high by 2050. Events like Water Night are important for raising awareness that our water resources are finite.

To become a water wise hero, register at  Water Night 2025.

For ways to save water, visit Save Water

Media contact: 0401 117 599 / media@powerwater.com.au