Recycled water provides a secure rainfall independent supply of water that is fit for a wide range of uses. It is part of the Government’s strategy to diversify water supplies, and to improve environmental health.

The Government’s target of recycling 20 percent of Melbourne’s wastewater has been achieved two years ahead of schedule through agricultural, residential parks and gardens and industrial recycling schemes.

About 40 per cent of Melbourne’s wastewater is treated at the Eastern Treatment Plant (ETP). A major upgrade of the Eastern Treatment Plant is expected to be completed during 2012, which will treat 100 billion litres of wastewater to Class A recycled water standard each year.

In addition to cleaning up the discharge at the Gunnamatta ocean outfall, this new Class A recycled water resource will be available for use in Melbourne’s south-east for localised, cost effective recycled water projects.