The QWRAP Water Demand Management Case Studies report explores how councils across the state are implementing strategies to balance water use with environmental, social, and economic needs. By examining real-world case studies, this research highlights innovative approaches to reducing water consumption, improving community engagement, and optimising infrastructure investments.

Why Water Demand Management Matters

Queensland’s regional councils face unique challenges in managing urban water supply. Periodic droughts, population growth, and the high costs of maintaining infrastructure require a proactive approach to water conservation. Demand management plays a crucial role in reducing unnecessary water use, extending the lifespan of assets, and minimising financial strain on communities.

Key Findings from the Case Studies

The report details various strategies employed by councils to curb water use while maintaining liveability and community satisfaction. Some of the most effective initiatives include:

• Smart Metering and Leak Detection: Mackay Regional Council’s myh2o website empowers residents with real-time water consumption data, helping them identify leaks and inefficiencies. By providing access to detailed usage reports, the council has been able to reduce peak demand and defer major infrastructure investments.
• Community-Based Social Marketing (CBSM) Campaigns:
  • Cairns Regional Council’s Sponge Campaign used creative storytelling and visual branding to engage the community on water conservation, achieving a 15% reduction in water use over three years.
  • Townsville City Council’s Bradley The Lawn Tamer initiative leveraged humour and digital engagement to educate residents on efficient lawn-watering techniques, targeting a major area of residential water use.
• Appliance and Infrastructure Incentives:
  • The Great Sprinkler Swap in Townsville encouraged residents to exchange inefficient sprinklers for water-saving alternatives, leading to measurable reductions in outdoor water use.
  • Wujal Wujal Aboriginal Shire Council implemented household water audits and flow restrictors, significantly reducing per capita water consumption and lowering operational costs.
• School and Community Engagement Programs:
  • Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Schools Gardening Competition educated students on sustainable gardening practices, fostering long-term behavioural change around water use.
  • Toowoomba Regional Council’s Waterwise Website and Education Program shifted the focus from temporary drought responses to long-term water efficiency education, ensuring continued awareness and conservation efforts.

The Broader Impact

These case studies demonstrate that proactive water demand management can deliver significant benefits, including:

• Cost Savings: By reducing peak demand, councils can delay expensive infrastructure expansions.
• Environmental Protection: Lower water extraction helps maintain ecological balance and improves river health.
• Community Resilience: Educating residents about conservation ensures that water-saving habits persist beyond drought periods.
• Operational Efficiency: Smart metering and targeted leak detection allow councils to manage their networks more effectively.

The findings from the QWRAP Water Demand Management Case Studies provide a roadmap for regional councils looking to improve water efficiency. By sharing knowledge, adopting best practices, and investing in innovative solutions, Queensland’s water utilities can build a more sustainable future.

Download the research report here.