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Water fit for human consumption is called potable water or drinking water. Water that is not fit for drinking but is not harmful for humans when used for recreational purposes may be called various names including treated recreational water or natural water. In Western Australia different types of water are regulated or monitored by different government departments.
Treated recreational water
Aquatic facilities
All aquatic facilities, as defined in the Health (Aquatic Facilities) Regulations 2007, must close. Pool use for essential medical / allied health requirements remain exempt.
Backyard swimming pools in a residential property are not considered a public swimming pool, however only members of the household would be permitted to access it.
Natural water
Beaches
Beaches are monitored by the Department of Health with support from local government.
The City’s four beaches (Bathers Beach, Leighton Beach, South Beach and Port Beach) are sampled during November to April for bacterial quality as part of the state government’s annual health swimming survey.
The City’s beaches have each recorded a green beach grade over the past years of sampling. This means that the water quality is of a high standard and is safe for swimming. The results of testing are collaborated yearly with other local governments and displayed on the healthy swimming website.
The estuary and rivers
The estuary and rivers are monitored by the Swan River Trust and Department of Water. The Swan River Trust and Department of Water, conduct routine water quality monitoring at more than 30 sites spread throughout the estuary. The Swan River Trust also monitors the water quality entering the Swan and Canning rivers.
For further information on natural waterways visit The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation website.
Drinking water
Scheme water
Scheme water is supplied and tested by the Water Corporation of Western Australia, managed by the Department of Water and regulated by the Department of Health.
For information on drinking water, guidelines and links to resources, visit the Department of Health’s website. Or for information on the supply and monitoring of drinking water visit the water quality section of the Water Corporations website.
Rain water tanks
Rain water tanks are an excellent source of providing non-potable water to your household for the toilet and laundry, washing your car and watering the garden.
In terms of the City's position on water sustainability for new developments, please refer to local planning policy 2.2 part A clause 3 and part B - Water. The City's policy recommends that new lots developments include installation of at least a 3000 litre rainwater tank plumbed to the toilet or washing machine.
The Department of Health’s website has more information on rain water collection.
Useful documents
Code of practice for the design, construction, operation, management and maintenance of aquatic facilities.
Useful links
Department of Health
Swan River Trust
Department of Water
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation
Water Corporation of Western Australia