Wastewater comes from homes and other buildings like schools and commercial premises. It consists of both blackwater (water from toilets and urinals) and greywater (water from kitchens, baths, washing machines etc).
Wastewater is generated in your house from kitchens, bathrooms and laundries. It is different to stormwater, which is rainfall collected in gutters from roofs and roads and usually flows untreated into a nearby waterway or soak pit. Because it may contain pathogens, nutrients and other harmful contaminants, wastewater needs treatment before it can be discharged.
Depending on where you live, you may need to manage your wastewater on your property. The following pages are designed to help you understand more about wastewater, how it is treated and your responsibilities regarding wastewater treatment and discharge.
Reticulated wastewater systems
Find out if you are part of a reticulated wastewater system.
On-site wastewater management systems (OWMS)
Read about the types of on-site wastewater management systems.
Rules for operating an OWMS
Find out about the rules that apply to your OWMS.
Maintaining an OWMS
Keeping your OWMS in working order.
Buying or selling a property with an OWMS
Find out what you need to know before buying or selling your property with an existing OWMS.
Information for developers, designers and installers
Understanding regulatory requirements for onsite wastewater management system (OWMS).