NSW rainwater tank rebate
Up to 40% of a household's water use can be replaced with rainwater. The Rainwater Tank Rebate is part of the NSW Government's $340 million Climate Change Fund to help business, households and government save energy and water.
The Rainwater Tank Rebate is available for the installation of any new rainwater storage system in residential properties in NSW.
Eligibility
- The tank(s) must have a minimum 2000-litre capacity and be purchased in full and installed between 1 July 2007 and 30 June 2011.
- Households not connected to the mains supply are eligible for a rebate for the purchase of the tank only.
- Rainwater tanks installed to comply with BASIX (the Building Sustainability Index) for new homes, major renovations or a pool installation are not eligible for a rebate.
See the full terms and conditions for the rebate.
How much is the rebate?
The rebate is based on the size of the tank and whether it is plumbed into your toilet or washing machine.
| Tank(s) capacity | Tank Rebate | Connection to toilet(s) | Connection to washing machine(s) | Maximum total |
|---|
| 2000-3999 litres | $150 | $500 | $500 | $1150
|
| 4000-6999 litres | $400 | $500 | $500 | $1400 |
| 7000 litres and above | $500 | $500 | $500 | $1500 |
How to claim your rebate
You claim rebate after your tank has been installed and any plumbing work is completed.
The terms and conditions of the rebate are the same wherever you live in NSW. However, Sydney Water, Hunter Water and Gosford Wyong Councils' Water Authority customers apply through their local water utlities at the links below.
Customers of all other water utlities and people not connected to mains supply apply through the Department of Environment and Climate Change NSW.
You will need to:
If plumbing work was done, have your plumber complete the relevant section of the application form
Attach your original receipts for the tank and installations, showing payment in full has been made
Send completed form to:
NSW Climate Change Fund Rainwater Tank Rebate Program
PO Box A290
Sydney South 1232.
Sydney, Central Coast and Hunter regions
Local planning requirements
The rules covering installation of rainwater tanks vary in different areas. Many local councils have specific requirements for installing the tank, including size, colour and distance from neighbours' boundaries.
Contact your local council to find out about the planning and building requirements in your area before you install a rainwater tank.
Tank installation and connection
Rainwater tank connections to the toilet or washing machine must be undertaken by a licensed plumber and meet requirements under the NSW Code of Practice for Plumbing and Drainage.
The licensed plumber will need to sign your rebate application form to confirm that the tank has been professionally connected and complies with the regulations.
Many local water utilities also require an inspection of rainwater tank plumbing. Your plumber is required to notify the local water utility on completion of rainwater tank plumbing work and will be able to advise you about local water utility requirements in your area.
Health requirements
The NSW Department of Health does not recommend drinking rainwater where a reticulated water supply is available. More information is available from the NSW Health Rainwater Tank brochure
Frequently asked questions
Go to frequently asked questions
When do I get my rebate?
We will send out a cheque for your rebate within 60 days of receiving the completed application form and receipt(s) for the tank and installation, subject to verification of your application details.
Contact us
For more information about applying for the rainwater tank rebate, call the Department of Environment and Climate Change Environment Line on 1300 361 967 or email us at rebates@environment.nsw.gov.au
Page last updated: 29 May 2009
