Episode: VIC Special
Date: 24th January
Story: Water Wise How
Presenter: Neville Passmore

Climate change has challenged our water usage and Melbourne?s rainfall has declined dramatically, that?s why conserving water is so important. Neville speaks with Tony Kelly, Managing Director of Yarra Valley Water and industry spokesperson for target 155, to find out what we can do to reduce our water usage.

Quick Facts

• In a typical suburban home, about 51% of all water is used in the bathroom, 22% is used in the laundry, 19% is used in the garden and 8% in the kitchen.
• Households used more than 60 per cent of Melbourne's water in 2007-08.

Save Water, Target 155

• Recognising the importance of securing water supplies, the Victorian Government and water authorities are delivering long term solutions to meet Victoria?s water needs.
• One of these initiatives is Save Water Target 155, aimed at reducing water usage in Melbourne households and businesses. Everyone is encouraged to use no more than 155 litres per person per day.

A few ways to achieve Target 155

• Only water your garden on set watering days if necessary or safely use grey water instead.
• Check the weather forecast so you don?t water if rain is expected.
• Install a water-efficient showerhead. If you bring in your old shower head, you will be given a new water efficient shower-head for free.
• Change from a top loader to a front loader washing machine which is more water efficient.
• The dishwasher is the highest consumer of water in the kitchen so make sure you install a water efficient model. The best water rating is a five star.
• Mulch your garden. This holds the moisture in and reduces the need to water so often.
• Group plants together with similar water requirements and choose drought tolerant plants.
• Read you water meter so you can understand the nature of your water usage and find out how much water your household uses. Visit your water utility website for tips on reading your meter.
• Remember there are rebates on offer for changing old shower heads, toilets and hot water circulators. Rebates also apply for installing grey water recycling systems and for installing a rainwater tank.

For more information:
Yarra Valley Water
Head Office:
Lucknow Street
Mitcham VIC 3132
Mailing Address:
Private Bag 1
Mitcham VIC 3132
Phone: 13 1721
Email: enquiry@yvw.com.au
Website: http://www.yvw.com.au?

The Department of Sustainability and Environment
Head Office Address: 8 Nicholson Street, East Melbourne, VIC 3002
Phone: 136 186
Website: www.ourwater.vic.gov.au

For more tips on saving water, also visit www.savewater.com.au