Rainwater Tanks Ease Pressure On State Water Supplies

A range of new initiatives have been announced by the Premier of New South Wales, Bob Carr, to ease pressure on the states water supplies by encouraging home owners to install rainwater tanks at their homes.

The initiatives include doubling the maximum of a rainwater tank allowed without a development consent to 10,000 litres capacity.

Other initiatives include the free installation of new water meters and a New South Wales Government review of options for a rebate scheme to provide a discount to purchasers of rainwater tanks.

Alex Dunlop of City Rainwater Tanks at St Mary's in Sydney's western suburbs welcomed the plans to encourage home owners to install rainwater tanks.

"The entire community will benefit because research has shown that a lack of clean water is the biggest issue facing cities in the next 50 years," Mr Dunlop said.

"The traditional corrugated steel tank is now made from AQUAPLATE® steel with a food grade polymer coating developed by BlueScope Steel specifically for the purpose of collecting rainwater which can also be used for drinking.

"We are seeing a steady increase in demand for tanks as people aim to minimise their dependence on town water," Mr Dunlop said.

AQUAPLATE® steel for water tanks offer a combination of low price, long life and good looks.

Although most rainwater tanks retail at around A$750, the New South Wales state government is considering offering a rebate at the point of purchase.

Its initiatives are also receiving support at Local Government level with some councils making rainwater tanks compulsory in major developments.

"People are beginning to rediscover the benefits of rainwater tanks for their gardens and other household uses - especially the savings in the long run on their annual water bill through reducing their reliance on town water," Mr Dunlop said.

"The big surprise to many is the modest cost of a tank made from AQUAPLATE® steel, even with pump, wiring and plumbing and if necessary a concrete slab for it to stand on."

BlueScope Steel backs AQUAPLATE® steel with a 20 year warranty* against corrosion to perforation.

Customers can choose from a range of COLORBOND® steel colours or opt for a natural, corrosion resistant galvanized surface with a resin coating applied.

* Warranty conditions apply.