Western Australian households can claim up to $500 to replace old toilets under the expanded Waterwise Towns program. A four-star toilet earns $400, while a five-star model with a built-in hand basin earns $500. Existing toilets must be single-flush or dual-flush units installed before 1995. Replacements must be fitted by a plumber, and up to two toilets per property can be claimed. The scheme runs until May 31, 2027, or until funding runs out. The state government says the program has saved 2.8 billion litres of water since 2013.
Primary students from Hoppers Crossing, Point Cook, Manor Lakes and Werribee have placed first, second and third in Greater Western Water's National Water Week poster competition. Over 2320 students from early learning to year 8 entered, using painting, drawing and digital media to show water saving tips and the need to protect the resource. First prize winners in each age group moved on to state awards, with individual prizes valued at up to $100. Cambridge Primary School in Hoppers Crossing received this year's $500 school prize, sponsored by Southern Rural Water for a sustainable project.
Residents on the Cassowary Coast are being urged to rethink everyday water habits during National Water Week, despite living in one of Australia's wettest regions. Mayor Teresa Millwood said water should not be taken for granted, regardless of rainfall. Council recommends fixing leaking taps and toilets, keeping showers short, and running washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads. Gardeners are advised to water early or late in the day and choose water-efficient plants. Residents with smart water meters can use Your Water Portal to monitor use and receive leak alerts.
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Flows in Canungra Creek, the water source for the town of Canungra, have fallen below 15 megalitres per day after a lack of rainfall in the catchment. Seqwater and Urban Utilities have a joint drought response plan that will be activated if flows drop below seven megalitres per day. Seqwater says it is ready to respond if creek levels keep falling and is progressing long-term water supply solutions for the town. Urban Utilities is asking residents to keep saving water, such as taking shorter showers and watering gardens during cooler parts of the day.
