Changes to the current rainwater tank rebate offered by Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils will come into effect on 1 August 2009.

From this date the Councils' Rainwater Tank Rebate Program will provide financial assistance of up to $500 for connecting toilets and/or washing machines to existing rainwater tanks.

Gosford City Council’s, Manager Regulatory Services, Brett Koizumi-Smith said the changes are being made to encourage residents on the Central Coast to connect their existing rainwater tanks to their toilets and/or washing machines.

"The Councils’ rainwater tank program began in 2003 and since then we have issued over $4.4 million in rebates,” he said. 

“However the rate of internal connection has always been low despite our efforts to encourage residents and businesses to take that extra step.

“Over the past 12 months the NSW and Australian Governments have introduced rainwater tank rebate programs offering up to $2,000 for the installation of new rainwater tanks.

“The introduction of these programs has meant the Councils' could modify their rebate program to focus on the internal connection of existing rainwater tanks.

"By offering a rebate for the internal connections of existing tanks we are hoping to encourage tank owners to make that extra step and connect their tanks internally."

Wyong Shire Council’s Manager Water and Sewer, Greg McDonald said by connecting a rainwater tank internally, residents and businesses will make the greatest water savings.

“Central Coast residents have traditionally use about 72% of town water inside the home, with the majority of this used in the bathroom and laundry,” he said.

"For example the household washing machines can use between 50 and 150 litres per wash, using rainwater for just this purpose can save a family thousands of litres a year.

“By connecting a rainwater tank to the toilet or washing machine residents can therefore help cut their town water usage, and in turn their water bills.”

The Councils' rebate will be paid for the internal connection of rainwater tanks purchased and installed between 1 January 2003 and 1 August 2009; subject to Council inspections and other Terms and Conditions.

Central Coast residents applying for a NSW Government rebate are reminded that they should submit their rebate application forms directly to their local Council.

Visit www.gwcwater.nsw.gov.au for more information.

Media contact:           Kylie Gillett (Gosford) on 02 4304 7068