WATER SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Improving water self-sufficiency can increase resilience and provide peace of mind, particularly during dry periods or water restrictions. Many regional communities rely entirely on rainwater as their primary water source.
Rainwater
Rainwater is water harvested directly from roof runoff from domestic or commercial buildings and captured in rainwater tanks. Rainwater can be plumbed into buildings for non-drinking purposes. Rainwater can be used for drinking water, however it should be treated to ensure it’s safe to consume.
Collecting, storing and using rainwater is the most likely solution for water self-sufficiency within the shire.
Collecting and using rainwater can reduce your water bills and help maintain your garden during water restrictions. It can also help to conserve water resources and reduce environmental impacts beyond the home.
On average, a roof area of 100m2 (approximately 50% of an average house in Perth) can collect about 50,000 litres of water a year when plumbed for internal and external use. With an appropriately sized rainwater tank, this could supply up to 20% of a household’s water needs.
Rainwater Tank Approvals
A building approval is required for all water tanks exceeding 5,000 litres.
If the property does not have access to scheme water, a minimum of 120,000 litre tank is required.
Please see the Shire’s Building Approvals page for more information
Cost Considerations for Rainwater Tank Installations
- Guttering and downpipes
- Groundwork for tank pad
- Rainwater Tank
- Water pump
- Plumbing
- Water Treatment
Other Resources
Read more about rainwater:
Your Home Rainwater Guide
Draft Alternate Water Supply Guidelines – Stormwater and Rainwater
Rainwater storage and reuse systems
Water Corporation - Waterwise
Australian guidelines for water recycling
The cost effectiveness of residential rainwater tanks in Perth
Groundwater
When rain falls, some of it flows across the surface of the land and accumulates in rivers, lakes, and eventually the ocean. But some of the water seeps into the ground and accumulates in cracks and pores in rocks (aquifers), forming groundwater resources that eventually flow into rivers, lakes, or the ocean.
In some circumstances, it’s possible to drill a bore to tap into aquifers and extract the water for use. However, some aquifers are declining due to reduced recharge from declining rainfall and water-repellent soils, where water runs off rather than infiltrating.
In Western Australia, you need permission (a licence) from the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation (DWER) for bores. You can find out more about licensing here.
Groundwater in the Shire of Northam is often saline and acidic, making a bore prohibitive.
Recycled Wastewater
Many homes use potable (drinking) water for nearly all household and garden uses. You can reduce potable water use at home by treating and reusing greywater (from showers, basins, and taps) and blackwater (from the toilet, kitchen sink, and dishwasher).
Greywater
Greywater is wastewater from baths, showers, spas, bathroom basins, washing machines and laundry tubs in your home. Greywater can be used to irrigate gardens and lawns, which is especially helpful during drier months. When treated properly, it can also be used for toilet flushing and laundry to reduce your home's overall water use. See this Water Corporation blog for more information.
In WA, greywater reuse is regulated by the ‘Code of Practice for the Reuse of Greywater in Western Australia’ (Department of Health, 2010). It’s important to follow these guidelines to ensure safe and effective greywater reuse. This includes having the system installed by licensed professionals, using greywater below the soil surface to prevent human contact, and ensuring the system has an overflow to the sewer to handle excess greywater. Additionally, surface irrigation is permitted if the greywater has been adequately treated.
For more information on installing a greywater system visit the Department of Health
Blackwater
Blackwater (from the toilet, kitchen sink and dishwasher) requires stringent treatment via an Aerobic Treatment Unit (ATU), also known as a Secondary Treatment System (STS) or Aerated Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS) and is likely cost-prohibitive if the property is already connected to a sewage system.
You can find out more about Septic Systems here
Updated 05.02.2026