Environment

NSW Climate Change Fund: Rainwater Tank Rebates

Up to 40% of a household's water use can be replaced with rainwater. By using rainwater every day to flush toilets and wash clothes, you will save precious drinking water.

Rebates are available for the installation of any new rainwater storage system on residential properties in NSW.

Note: If you are a Sydney Water customer you apply for rebates through them, however all other rainwater tank rebate applications should go through the Climate Change Fund.

For more information on the rebates offered under the climate change fund, please read on. If you require information on Sydney Waters Rainwater Tank Rebate click here.

Rainwater tank rebate eligibility criteria

The rainwater tank rebate is available for the installation of any new rainwater storage system for a residential property. It must have a minimum 2000 litre capacity and be purchased in full and installed between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2009.

Households not connected to the mains supply are eligible for a rebate for the purchase of the tank only.

Note: Rainwater tanks installed to comply with BASIX (the Building Sustainability Index) for new homes, major renovations or a pool installation are not eligible for this rebate.

If you install more than one tank, it's the combined size that counts. The total rebate can be no more than the total cost of the tank and installation.

Local planning regulations

The rules covering installation of rainwater tanks vary in different council areas. In the Blacktown Council area, rainwater tanks with a capacity of 10,000 litres or less do not need council approval. Residents wishing to install a tank/s with a capacity greater than 10,000 litres are required to submit a development application to Council.

If installing a tank/s with a combined capacity of 10,000 litres or less Council still has specific requirements for installing the tank. Click here to view Councils Exempt Development Criteria.

Applying for the rebate?

Applications for the rebate should be filled out and sent in after your tank has been installed and any plumbing work is completed. Please refer to application form for lodgement requirements.

For a copy of the application form from the Department of Environment and Climate Change please click here or call the Department of Environment and Climate Change on 1300 361 967.