Preparing for Stage 4 Water Restrictions

Stage 4 Water Restrictions will be needed if the ACT's water storage levels fall to the low thirties (%). Stage 4 was first foreshadowed in early 2007 due to record low dam levels but were able to be avoided because of the water saving efforts made by the community and ACTEW's extraction of water from the Murrumbidgee River to supplement supply.

ACTEW is urging the community to follow current Stage 3 restrictions and save as much water as possible as low consumption will be a key factor in helping us avoid Stage 4.

For tips on saving water, to find out how much water you are using and how much you should be using click here.

Why we may need Stage 4

Like most of Australia, the ACT has experienced drought conditions over the past six years and inflows into our catchments have been down by 63% from the long-term average, and almost 90% less in 2006.

Stage 3 Water Restrictions currently apply.

ACTEW will continue to monitor dam levels, water consumption, rainfall and forecasts and notify the community of changes to restriction levels as they are required.

Industry consultation

ACTEW has been consulting with industry groups that rely on outside use of water to prepare them should Stage 4 be required. These groups are: car wash, childcare facilities, cleaning industry (windows and buildings), construction industry, golf courses, irrigation, landscaping, motor industry (retail, service, repair), nurseries, pool industry (retail, servicing, construction) and turf industry.

Representatives of peak industry bodies and individual business owners have attended meetings to discuss ways in which they use potable water and potential exemptions ACTEW could put in place to assist them cope with an introduction of Stage 4.

ACTEW has been reviewing industry submissions and has developed exemption policies to help these groups maintain core business activities and preserve jobs while still making significant water savings.

If your business or industry is affected by the restrictions, contact ACTEW's Water Conservation Office to ensure you are aware of what the Stage 4 conditions will mean for you.