WA Health encourages the use of alternate water for non-potable end uses. Alternate water is derived from stormwater, roofwater or superficial aquifers and can be treated and utilised for: 

• irrigation
• toilet flushing
• dust suppression and a
• wide range of uses other than drinking.

The ‘Australian Guidelines on the Use of Recycled Water: Managing Health and Environmental Risks (Phase 2) – Stormwater Harvesting and Reuse’ (External link) were released for public comment in 2008.

During 2009 WA Health released an interpretation of these guidelines for the WA context, entitled the "Draft Alternate Water Supply Guidelines - Stormwater and Rainwater". 

For further information contact the Water Unit of the Environmental Health Directorate on (08) 9388 4999 or email ehinfo@health.wa.gov.au





Last Updated: 8 February 2010