Save Water, Save Money - Every Drop Counts

Small changes today mean real savings tomorrow. As Australians living on one of the driest continents, we're getting smarter about water use—and it's paying off. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), households used approximately 1,773 gigalitres (GL) of mains-supplied water in 2021–22, down from 1,803 GL the year before. That's progress we can build on, especially in cities like Melbourne where residents are using around 164 litres per person per day.

Your water-saving wins add up fast

Here's the good news: simple upgrades deliver immediate returns. According to federal government guidance on water efficiency:

• Upgrade your shower head – A family of four can save nearly 12 kilo litres (kL) per year by reducing flow by just 1 L/min. That's roughly $35 back in your pocket annually.

• Switch to a modern toilet – Replace that old 12 L-flush toilet with a modern 3.5 L dual-flush (4-star rated) and you'll save around 50 kL and about $148 every year.

• Choose efficient appliances – By 2030, Australians could collectively save $2 billion by switching to water-efficient fixtures—that's about $175 per household annually.

Easy actions that pay you back

Getting started is simpler than you think:

• Fix dripping taps as soon as you notice them

• Install water-efficient fixtures with 4-star WELS ratings or higher

• Use shorter wash cycles on appliances

• Choose native plants that thrive naturally without extra watering

• Take 4-minute showers instead of 10-minute ones

The bottom line: Water is precious, and every litre you save strengthens our communities, protects our environment, and reduces your bills. Start with one change today—your future self (and your wallet) will thank you.

References

• Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS). Water Account, Australia, 2021–22. https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/environment/environmental-accounts/water-account-australia/latest-release

• Victorian Government. Target 150: Saving Water in Our Cities. https://www.water.vic.gov.au/for-households/target-150-saving-water-in-our-cities

• Australian Government, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. Water Efficiency. https://www.energy.gov.au/households/water-efficiency

• Evermore Plumbing. How Much Water Does the Average Australian Use Per Day? https://www.evermoreplumbing.com.au/blog/how-much-water-does-the-average-australian-use-per-day