Cardinia Shire Council is developing a new Onsite Wastewater Management Plan.
The Onsite Wastewater Management Plan helps to protect our health and environment by ensuring onsite wastewater management systems, including septic tanks, are correctly installed, managed and maintained.
To enhance the approach to wastewater management, Council is seeking community feedback to understand residents' experiences and priorities regarding wastewater management.
The Onsite Wastewater Management Plan, previously known as the Domestic Wastewater Management Plan, outlines how Council manages risks associated with wastewater from homes not connected to a municipal sewer system and:
- Assesses the risks to human health and the environment posed by onsite wastewater systems. This includes the risk to groundwater and surface water from existing and future systems, and the risk of existing systems that are, or could be discharging beyond the property boundaries
- Identifies actions and timeframes to improve the management of these systems and minimise the risks.
- Manages non-compliance and what their enforcement approach is.
Wastewater includes greywater from baths, showers, sinks and kitchens, and blackwater from toilets, and encompasses residential, commercial and industrial properties that are not connected to the reticulated sewerage system commonly known as the sewerage mains.
From 14 July to 4 August, Council will be engaging with residents to gather insights, ideas, and experiences that will help shape the new plan. Council wants to understand what obstacles may be present for residents who have access to the reticulated sewerage system but have not connected. During this phase of engagement, Council is specifically seeking feedback from residents currently using septic tank systems to understand more about their issues and experiences. This is an opportunity for community members to voice their thoughts on how Council manages the risks from wastewater across the shire.
This initial idea-gathering consultation will play a crucial role in shaping the draft Onsite Wastewater Management Plan, which the community will have the chance to provide feedback on in late 2025.
Cardinia Shire Mayor Councillor Jack Kowarzik encourages all community members to share their feedback to help shape the new plan.
"We want to hear from our community, especially residents who currently have septic tank systems on their property. Your ideas and experiences are invaluable in helping us develop an effective and sustainable onsite wastewater management strategy," said Mayor Kowarzik. "By working together, we can create a plan that not only meets regulatory standards and protects our local environment, but also reflects the needs of our community."
To participate in the conversation, share thoughts, and stay updated on upcoming engagement activities, visit cardinia.vic.gov.au/haveyoursay
