Recycling improves Phillip Island’s water security

Phillip Island residents and businesses are set to benefit from improved water security following the completion of the Phillip Island Recycled Water Scheme project. The scheme will save 194 million litres of drinking water each year by providing Class A recycled water to developing residential areas, as well as agricultural and commercial businesses.

Senator Don Farrell, Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, said the project will reduce the demand on local drinking water supplies while enhancing the reputation of the island’s environmental and tourism assets as well as its economic stability.

“The water treatment process has been upgraded from Class B to Class A, a buffer storage tank installed and 12 kilometres of new and upgraded pipes constructed to upgrade the distribution network,” Senator Farrell said.

“Sportsgrounds and recreational facilities will now be maintained with recycled water so they can be kept green and ready for use throughout the year.

“The upgrade also has the environmental benefit of reducing the volume of treated effluent discharged into the ocean.

“The Australian Government provided $2.85 million in funding for the project through the National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns program, under the Australian Government’s Water for the Future initiative.”

The National Water Security Plan for Cities and Towns program assists communities with fewer than 50,000 people to implement practical water-saving infrastructure.