MidCoast Council is inviting community feedback on its draft On-site Wastewater Management Strategy, on public exhibition until 12 March 2026.
The revised strategy provides a risk-based approach to on-site wastewater management (septic) systems across the MidCoast. It restructures compliance and service fees, replacing the current model with one that links costs to services delivered.
Systems deemed higher risk will be prioritised and inspected annually, particularly in environmentally sensitive oyster aquaculture areas. Owners of very high-risk systems are proposed to be charged $380 annually.
It is proposed all other system owners would contribute $76 per year. The fees may be reviewed in future years to reflect changes in service delivery costs and regulatory requirements once the strategy is adopted.
"This model does not raise additional revenue for Council, it redistributes costs on a risk-based model, with more than 10,000 property owners financially better off under the proposed changes," said MidCoast Council's Executive Manager Sustainable Development, Rachel Pleasant.
"This model also moves away from a per-system charge to a per-property charge, meaning properties with multiple systems will only pay once," Ms Pleasant said.
The draft 2026-2031 On-site Wastewater Management Strategy has been developed to protect waterways and improve public health outcomes. It also provides greater clarity for property owners around Council's fees and services and their own responsibilities.
The strategy aims to meet community expectations for improved waterway health and consistent regulation, while moving to a more equitable and transparent regulatory approach to managing septic systems across the MidCoast.
Approximately 11,000 properties across the MidCoast rely on septic systems.
"When properly maintained, these systems operate effectively. However, poorly functioning systems can pose risks to public health and the environment," Ms Pleasant said.
Under the proposed strategy, Council will inspect all registered septic systems over the next five years.
In response to questions and misinformation raised within the community, Council has addressed several key issues. You can read a fact sheet and full list of FAQs on the Councils Have Your Say page.
Submissions received during the exhibition period will be considered before the strategy is finalised and presented to Council for adoption.
Head to https://haveyoursay.midcoast.nsw.gov.au/draft-site-wastewater-management-strategy to read the draft strategy and have your say before Thursday 12 March 2026.
