There are a number of rebates, subsidies and funding for water saving initiatives currently available, funded either by state or federal government. Each scheme has different eligibility criteria, and it is important to be aware of the closing dates for purchases and claim submission, where this is relevant.

Please contact Wimmera Water Solutions or follow the links below if you have any questions on these.

Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate Scheme

The Victorian government is offering rebates for tanks, grey water systems and water saving devices. Please read this document for more specific details.

Important details are as follows:

• Scheme applies to all town water customers throughout Victoria
• Rebate applications must be received by your water supplier no later than 30 June 2009
• You must attach the Water Smart Claim Form
• For more information, see Water Smart Gardens and Homes Rebate Scheme

National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative

The National Rainwater and Greywater Initiative will help households and surf lifesaving clubs save precious drinking water by installing rainwater tanks and greywater systems.
The Australian government is providing:

• Rebates of up to $500 for households to install rainwater tanks or greywater systems
• Grants to surf lifesaving clubs of up to $10,000 to install a rainwater tank or undertake a larger water saving project

Funding for Water Saving Initiatives

The Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program

Every Victorian council on stage 3 or 4 water restrictions will be eligible for a $40,000 grant to reduce the impact of the drought on local sporting facilities. The new Drought Relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program will help community sporting facilities cope with the continuing dry conditions and reduce their water use into the future.

This funding can be used by councils to install tanks for collecting rainwater, or recycling water used in change rooms. Wimmera Water Solutions are able to work with the councils and sporting clubs to identify water catchment and recycling opportunities to "drought-proof" ovals and grounds.

Additional information can be found at Department of Victorian Communities.This program is currently closed. Application forms will be available on the website during the next funding round.

Smart Water Fund
Victoria's water suppliers (including GWMWater) together with the Victorian Government have established and jointly operate the Smart Water Fund. The Smart Water Fund aims to encourage and support innovative development of water, biosolids recycling and water saving projects within the community. The Smart Water Fund has made approximately $13 million available to date in supporting innovative sustainable water use projects.
Additional information can be found at Smart Water Fund.

National Solar Schools Program
The National Solar Schools Program is an Australian goverment initiative which provides up to $50,000 (GST exclusive) to install solar hot water systems, rainwater tanks, 2 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and a range of other energy efficiency measures, such as:

• energy efficient lighting
• skylights
• ceiling fans
• insulation
• sensors
• small wind turbines
• automatic doors
• external window fittings (e.g. double glazing, awnings & shutters)

Community Water Grants is one of the three national programmes in the $2 billion Australian Government Water Fund, and will provide a total of $200 million over five years to help communities play a positive role in managing Australia's water resources. The grants encourage better water use and will improve water health through practical on-the-ground projects.

Additional information can be found at National Solar Schools Program.