Water rebates working

By Rebecca Fraser
CASEY residents are leading the charge on saving water, claiming more than 7,000 water-smart rebates in the past two years.
Since October 2003, Casey residents have claimed almost 7,500 rebates on a range of water-saving measures as part of the Victorian Government’s Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate Scheme.
The rebate scheme allows residents to claim rebates on water-saving products such as AAA shower roses, upgrading to eligible dual flush toilets, high pressure water cleaning devices, garden products, rainwater tanks and systems for re-using household waste water.
Residents can buy these goods from hardware stores, garden centres or plumbing stores and submit an application form to South East Water to claim their rebate. The rebate will be given to customers on their next water bill.
Narre Warren resident Peter Fernando, who bought a water pressure hose recently to help reduce his family’s water consumption, said he was pleased to receive the rebate.
“We can use it to wash cars and use it around the house to help save water,” Mr Fernando said. “People are not aware about the situation and how bad it is with our water.”
South East Water managing director, Dennis Cavagna, said the whole community should be congratulated for supporting the rebate scheme.
“Casey residents have done a terrific job saving water by buying water-smart products for use in and around the home,” he said.
“The Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebates Scheme will continue to support households to use water more wisely by making water-saving products more affordable. It will also help save money on water bills for years to come.”
Out of 15 municipal councils in South East Water’s service area, Casey residents have bought and installed the most water-saving devices, including:
•3,900 high pressure cleaning devices;
•1,300 garden water savings product baskets;
•350 AAA water efficient shower roses. Residents wishing to claim a Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate now have until 30 June 2006 to buya product and apply. For further details visit www.southeastwater.com.au/sewl/upload/document/Water_Rebates_Brochure.pd