Department of Health

Alternative water supplies

Risk hierarchy of alternative water supplies from low risk (rainwater) through to high risk (sewage).
Alternative water supplies are valuable sources of sustainable water. Water recycling conserves the high-quality water from our drinking water catchments for drinking and other personal uses, instead using alternative water supplies for non-drinking purposes. Water can be sourced from rainwater, stormwater, greywater, industrial water and sewage.

Water recycling uses water that is 'fit for purpose' – that is, the quality of water is safe for the intended use. Fit-for-purpose water can be safely used for non-drinking purposes such as irrigating public open space and flushing toilets.

Different types of alternative water supplies have different risks. Alternative water supplies need to be treated appropriately to ensure they are safe and fit for purpose.

Class A recycled water

Guidelines for treated sewerage or industry water.

Groundwater

Groundwater can be used for many purposes, however water quality is variable.

Recycled water auditing

Auditing ensures that risk management systems are functioning for recycled water schemes.

Portable toilets

Recirculating portable toilets does not pose a public health risk.

Reviewed 24 September 2024

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Contact details

Water Unit

50 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000
Phone 1300 761 874 (business hours)
water@dhhs.vic.gov.au
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