Recycled water is treated wastewater available for reuse from our wastewater treatment plants. This water comes from everyday household activities such as cooking, cleaning, bathing, and flushing toilets, and from commercial businesses and community facilities. This wastewater is processed at sewage treatment plants to meet strict government standards, making it safe for approved uses like irrigation and landscaping.
It's an important resource for GWMWater and the region. It has many benefits, such as:
- helping to maintain community resources such as sports ovals, race courses and golf courses
- encouraging regional growth by supporting community recreational spaces and local industry, such as vineyards
- reducing the need for drinking water or raw water in irrigation
- providing potable water substitution options
- reducing environmental impacts from traditional river discharges
Nineteen of our 29 wastewater treatment plants are currently supplying recycled water across the region to participating customers.
Our recycled water is treated to meet fit for purpose requirements according to EPA Victoria's guidelines. Under the guidelines, this water is used for:
- urban areas that have restricted public access during irrigation
- agricultural uses for vineyards
- agricultural uses for grazing or as fodder for livestock
- industrial uses for systems with no potential worker exposure
Recycled water is often stored in the winter and then used during the dry summer and autumn months when other water sources are scarce.
Using recycled water offers several important benefits:
Preserves Fresh Water Supplies
It helps conserve high-quality drinking water for essential uses like hydration, cooking, and hygiene.
Protects the Environment
By maximising reuse of treated wastewater, recycled water reduces the likelihood of high‑volume releases to rivers. Occasional discharges may occur only during exceptional rainfall events, and these are carefully managed since we are not licensed for routine release.
Cost-Effective Solution
Where available, recycled water is more affordable than fresh water, making it a smart choice for irrigation and other non-potable uses.
Yes—when used correctly, recycled water is safe for all approved applications. It’s important that users follow the appropriate safety measures and usage guidelines to ensure safe handling.
To maintain safety and compliance:
- Customers must use recycled water in line with the terms of their Recycled Water Supply Agreement, User Site Management Plan (USMP) or Health and Environment Management Plan (HEMP).
- Signage at publicly accessible sites to identify where recycled water is used.
- Fencing or other physical barriers should be used to restrict access where necessary.
- Livestock must be prevented from grazing on areas irrigated with Class C recycled water until a safe withholding period has passed.
- Watering points for livestock must be separate from recycled water sources to avoid ingestion.
These measures are essential to protect public health and animal welfare, and to comply with the conditions outlined in your Recycled Water Supply Agreement, User Site Management Plan (USMP), or Health and Environment Management Plan (HEMP) to ensure safe and compliant use.
Recycled water is a cost-effective option for non-potable uses, and its pricing is regulated by the Essential Services Commission (ESC). The ESC sets common pricing principles to ensure consistency across Victorian water corporations.
The recycled water tariff reflects the cost of using Class C recycled water. It does not include expenses related to transport, distribution, or any additional treatment beyond the Class C standard. Tariffs are reviewed annually and adjusted in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
GWMWater also offers industry-specific discounts for eligible recycled water users.
For more information, please call us on 1300 659 961 or refer to our tariffs and charges
GWMWater currently services a number of towns in the region with recycled water, but there are limitations to our supply capabilities. If you're interested in recycled water for your business or organisation, contact us to find out more.
