Business, government & big users

Business and industry, government and other large users of water need to conserve water supplies by using less and being more efficient water users.

Water restrictions apply to all businesses in SEQ - read the current business restrictions

Sunshine Coast, Redlands & Scenic Rim

Medium Level Water Restrictions for non-residential water users commenced in the Sunshine Coast Regional Council, Redland City Council and Scenic Rim Regional Council local government areas on 30 March 2009. The date by which non-residential water users will be required to comply with restriction requirements will vary according to water end use and/or the water consumption level.

Water Efficiency Management Plans

Business, industry and other non-residential users must achieve long-term savings, and compliance measures apply for large users:

businesses using more than 10 million litres a year must prepare, submit and comply with a Water Efficiency Management Plan (even if they have already achieved a reduction of 25%)
business consuming more than 1 million litres must install water efficient appliances
premises’ urinals must be water efficient by 31 March 2008

Guidelines are available to assist water users complete their plans.

Water-specific industries

Guidelines for specific industries are being updated in partnership with industry representatives and technical experts. The aim is:

car washers must maximise their use of re-circulated water and meet best practice targets
mobile commercial operators for building, vehicle and dog washing can only use town water in accordance with best practice guidelines, following registration and training
nurseries, turf farms and market gardens can only use water in compliance with their WEMPs
active playing fields and sporting groups can only water on allocated days at certain times

Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme

Businesses can also cut water consumption by purchasing white goods with a high water efficiency rating