Changes to the Waterwise Rebate Program
Washing machines
From 1 January 2008, washing machines rated 4 stars are no longer eligible for a washing machine rebate. Customers who purchased washing machines rated 4 stars on or before 31 December 2007 have until 31 March 2008 to claim the $150 rebate.
Other programs
From 1 July 2007, there have been some changes to the products that are eligible, and an increase in some rebates.
The changes apply up to 30 June 2008. The program is continually reviewed to ensure that it is having the desired effect and is delivering water savings.
For more information about the changes, see below:
- products removed from the rebate list
- new rebate (waterwise irrigation system)
- increased rebates
- products still eligible
- 2007–08 Waterwise Rebate Program brochure.
Products removed from the rebate list
From 1 July 2007, the four products below were removed from the rebate program.
Soil wetting agents: Soil wetting agents were removed from the program because an independent analysis of households which claimed the rebate showed that they did not reduce their water consumption. Soil wetting agents are effective products, but they only result in water savings when customers modify their watering habits.
Showerheads 3-star and above: Showerheads were removed from the program because nearly all models made now have a 3-star rating.
Tap timers: Tap timers were removed from the program because an independent analysis of households which claimed the rebate showed the timers did not reduce their water consumption.
Aerobic treatment units (ATU): ATUs are being removed from the program because the rebate could not be justified. People install ATUs because they do not have an alternative; if they are in an un-sewered area the wastewater from their house must be treated on site. It is incidental that the effluent from the ATU can be used for irrigation.
Washing machines: From 1 January 2008, washing machines rated 4 stars are no longer eligible for a washing machine rebate. Customers who purchased washing machines rated 4 stars on or before 31 December 2007 have until 31 March 2008 to claim the $150 rebate.
New rebate (waterwise irrigation system)
A rebate of $300 or 50 per cent (whichever is the lesser amount) is available towards the cost of a waterwise irrigation system installed by an approved waterwise irrigation installer. You can also claim a rebate for approved waterwise products such as subsurface irrigation and rain sensors, along with your claim for installation costs.
Waterwise garden irrigation systems
Increased rebates
Rebate amounts that increase for products installed from 1 July 2007:
Rainwater tank greater than 2000 litres (plumbed-in)
One rebate per property up to $600 or 50 per cent (whichever is the lesser amount) is available for the purchase and installation of a rainwater tank, including plumbing to the toilet and/or the washing machine.
Swimming pool cover – 8-year minimum warranty
One rebate per property of $200 is available for the purchase of an approved swimming pool cover.
Products still eligible
Products still eligible for rebates under the revised 2007–08 Waterwise Rebate Program are listed below.
For all purchases made between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2008, you have until 30 September 2008 to claim the applicable rebate.
Brochure
You can receive a 2007–08 Waterwise Rebate Program brochure by ringing 1300 133 646, or download the brochure below.
