Recycled water is wastewater that’s been treated so it can be sustainably reused for other purposes. Throughout our region we treat wastewater at our water reclamation plants and find beneficial ways to reuse the water.

There are three types of recycled water. Please view our website for a full definition of each type.

There’s a lot to love about recycled water.

• It is a reliable and sustainable source of water.
• It contributes to our circular economy and the sustainability of our environment.
• It is safe for many uses.

Using a biological treatment process, the Bendigo plant produces Class A, B and C recycled water.

This can be used to irrigate farms, cropping enterprises, businesses or sports grounds and agricultural irrigation under Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victorian Guidelines for Water Recycling.

Population growth and climate change, means we need to modernise and adapt our Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant.

The Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant receives and treats sewage from 120,000 people across Bendigo. As the population of Bendigo increases over time, so does the amount of wastewater we treat.

This means, in turn, the plant will produce more recycled water.

We currently have just over 1,100 recycled water customers connected to Bendigo’s recycled water system. As we continue to grow, we are looking for further opportunities that may help us distribute this water.

Yes, there is a cost to use recycled water however it’s often cheaper and more cost-efficient than potable water.

The cost can vary and is dependent on infrastructure required, management of the supply and any benefits associated with end-use.

See our Fees and Charges page for more details.

We will accept forms from anyone within approximately 10 kilometres of Bendigo Water Reclamation Plant.

Ideally, we are looking for large water users like farmers, vineyard operators, cropping enterprises, golf clubs or businesses.

Customers and high-water users in Huntly, Epsom, Bagshot, Wellsford, Barnadown and towards Fosterville are particularly encouraged to apply as they are close to our existing recycled water pipeline which runs between our plant in Epsom and Fosterville.

Expressions of Interest have now closed. They were open from 1 February 2024 to 29 February 2024.

Where significant investment is required to supply recycled water to a property, the minimum agreement length is 20 years.

Agreement lengths will vary and are determined on a case-by-case basis.

Assessments and in-principle agreements may take several months. Construction of pipes, storage and infrastructure could take several years to complete.

Timing of supply will depend on these factors.

After completing an Expression of Interest, we will be in touch.

No. We will assess each application and consider its merits, using a transparent and accountable evaluation process.