Griffith City Council is reminding residents across the Local Government Area (LGA) of the importance of correctly identifying and using non-potable (untreated) water, which is unsuitable for human consumption.
Council supplies water to various properties across Griffith, Yenda, Beelbangera, Bilbul, Hanwood, Lake Wyangan, Nericon, Yoogali, Warburn, Widgelli, and Tharbogang, including both potable and non-potable water supplies. It is critical that all residents, especially new property owners and tenants, are fully informed about the presence of non-potable water on their properties.
“Non-potable water is untreated, raw water sourced from the Main Canal, and it’s essential that residents understand its limitations,” said Council’s Water and Wastewater Manager, Durgananda Chaudhary.
“This water should not be consumed or used for cooking, washing food, ice making, teeth cleaning, or bathing. It is strictly for uses such as toilet flushing, garden irrigation, laundry, and domestic animals.”
The areas that receive non-potable water include:
- Yenda (raw water non-potable supply)
- Griffith (non-potable supply for parks, gardens, and business customers)
Non-potable water has not been disinfected, so it poses a risk if used for human consumption.
“We strongly urge everyone, especially landlords and tenants, to clearly mark non-drinking taps and educate visitors, guests, or customers about these water sources,” said Mr Chaudhary.
To easily identify non-potable water supplies, residents can check the water meters on their properties, these will have purple paint markings. Landlords and real estate agents must notify new tenants or buyers about the presence of non-potable water. Similarly, accommodation or function centres should ensure guests are aware of the non-drinking water taps.
In commercial premises, taps connected to non-potable supplies should be clearly labelled with signage indicating “Water not suitable for drinking.”
“We appreciate the community’s cooperation in ensuring non-potable water is used appropriately and safely,” Mr Chaudhary said.
