A NSW Government website

Projects and programs

Water Efficiency Program

Water is critical to the health, resilience, liveability and economic sustainability of regional and metropolitan communities.

About the program

We are seeking new ways and approaches to working with the community to ensure we have secure, reliable water sources and to build future resilience to climate change and droughts. The efficient use of water will contribute to the sustainability of long-term supplies as population increases, build resilience to drought and support readiness to respond to future extremes in weather.

Better valuing our precious water resources is an important message in the NSW Water Strategy, with ongoing water conservation practices identified as a required part of managing the ongoing water needs of NSW communities.

Increased investment in water system efficiency, water conservation and demand management can delay the timing and reduce the scale of investment in new supply infrastructure and maximise the value of our resources. Water conservation is strongly supported by communities and businesses, and across government.

Boy having fun playing with water in the garden.

Water efficiency framework is a best practice guide to developing and delivering water efficiency.

Regional leakage reduction program

A key aspect of the Water Efficiency Program is addressing network leakage and water loss as a priority.

Mother and daughter with watering can.

We have partnered with the Water Conservancy to support local water utilities and councils by providing Smart Water Advice Resources.

Woman loading front-end washing machine

The NSW Government’s Washing Machine Replacement Trial has helped social housing tenants across the state replace inefficient top load.

Children sitting on the floor learning.

We have a range of resources designed to encourage students to investigate what makes water such a precious resource.

NABERS Water Starters offer

Partnering with the National Australian Built Environment Rating System (NABERS) to help customers measure and manage their water.

Modern evaporative air cooler.

We are partnering with researchers and other organisations to discover more ways to improve water efficiency.

Girl washing hands - Image credit: Richard Bulley

The NSW Government is reviewing the BASIX water standards to ensure water security and resilience during drought.

Saving water.

From inside to outside the home, in schools and at the workplace, we can all do our part to help save water. Find ways you can help.

Partnership Approach

We have a dedicated Water Efficiency Program team who are collaborating with key stakeholders, including the Water Directorate, Local Government NSW, local water utilities, industry leaders and other government agencies.

To stay in touch on water efficiency programs or for more information contact the team by emailing water.efficiencyprogram@dpie.nsw.gov.au.