Water Wise Homes
Every home plays a part in protecting our waterways — both by reducing water use and by preventing pollution.
New Homes
In NSW, the BASIX® (Building Sustainability Index) program ensures new homes are built to be more water-efficient. A BASIX certificate is required for all new residential developments, major renovations, and pools.
Existing Homes
If you're living in an existing home, there are still many easy and cost-effective ways to reduce your water use and care for local creeks and rivers. From shorter showers to smarter gardening, small changes add up.
- Fix dripping taps and leaking toilets
- Install water-efficient appliances and fixtures (e.g. low-flow showerheads, dual-flush toilets)
- Water your garden early in the morning or late evening
- Choose drought-tolerant plants and use mulch to retain soil moisture
- Collect and reuse rainwater where possible – install a rainwater tank
- Water Saving Tips – Sydney Water
- WaterFix Residential
The water from our homes and gardens eventually flows into creeks and rivers — often without treatment. You can help protect our waterways by:
- Sweeping driveways and gutters instead of hosing them
- Washing cars on the grass or using a commercial car wash
- Raking up leaves and grass clippings and composting them
- Putting cigarette butts and litter in the bin
- Taking bags when walking the dog and binning pet waste
- Cleaning paintbrushes over soil or in sinks connected to the sewer
- Reporting stormwater pollution to Council, Sydney Water or the EPA
Sewage overflows are costly and unpleasant — and often caused by stormwater entering the sewer system through faulty pipes or illegal connections. As a property owner, you are responsible for managing and maintaining plumbing within your property boundary. If you suspect a problem, ask a plumber about CCTV or smoke testing. Fixing broken pipes helps prevent overflows and protects local creeks.