What you can do

Living Sustainably

Waterwise

Where do I start?

Water efficiency does not mean doing without. Adopting simple changes can make a big difference. Use the Interactive House to discover ways to save water.

Buy water efficient products

There are two rating and labelling schemes in operation to help you make the switch to more efficient appliances, water saving devices and products.

A-Rating and Labelling Scheme

Use the National Water Conservation Rating and Labelling Scheme to help you select and purchase water efficient appliances and fittings. Look for the "A-Rating" – the more "A's" the more efficient the device. Five A's (AAAAA) indicates the highest level of water efficiency.

Managed by the Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA), this scheme applies to a range of products including:

shower heads
dishwashers
washing machines
taps and tap outlets
toilets
flow regulators

You can find out how water efficient a product is by asking your retailer or plumber, or by checking the Water Services Association database.

Star Labelling and Standards Scheme

In 2005 the Australian Government introduced a mandatory Water Efficiency Labelling Standards (WELS) Scheme. This will co-exist with but eventually replace the A-Rating and Labelling system.

Based on the popular and recognisable Energy Rating and Labelling scheme, the WELS labelling system rates and labels products using a star rating system – with six stars indicating the highest level of water efficiency.

Ask your retailer, supplier or plumber for information about products available and how they compare, or use the WELS Product Rating database.