HOUSEHOLD WATER CONSERVATION

Household water use and conservation have become increasingly important in recent years due to the continued prevalence of drought conditions, and the consequential introduction of water restrictions in many parts of Australia.

In addition to mandatory water restrictions in many parts of Australia, many Australians have been voluntarily conserving water by adopting water saving practices and installing water saving devices such as dual flush toilets.

In 2007, the majority of Australian households had some type of water conservation device installed in their home. In June 1994, only 39% of households had a dual flush toilet, but this increased to 81% in 2007. Similarly, the proportion of households using water-efficient shower heads rose from 22% in 1994 to 55% in 2007.

Moreover, in 2007, 67% of households reported that they saved water in the bathroom, 64% in the laundry, 50% in the kitchen and 40% in the toilet. Collecting grey water for reuse in and around the residence, using full loads when washing dishes or clothing, turning off the tap while cleaning teeth or shaving, and taking fewer and shorter showers were the most popular water saving measures.