Public policy - Drinking water managementThe main policy objective of the NWQMS is to achieve sustainable use of the nation's water resources by protecting quality and supporting economic and social development. The process for water quality management involves the community working with government to set and achieve local environmental values and water quality objectives.
The National Water Quality Management Strategy has been developed to help the community, councils, catchment managers, environment protection agencies and water authorities protect water quality.
The 2004 Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) have been developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council with the Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council. (The Guidelines may be downloaded in sections, or as one large file.)
Alternatively, you can download a brief overview:
Chapter 4 of the ADWG, 'Framework for the Management of Drinking Water Quality' is a guide to what good a quality drinking water means. It specifically applies to water supplies for small communities (less than 1,000).
It deals with materials and chemicals than can be used to treat drinking water in small communities (Chapter 4.2.3). Small communities with limited water quality expertise should seek advice from larger suppliers (eg. regional water authorities or other local governments).
All materials and chemicals used in the water supply system should comply with Australian Standard AS/NZ 4020.
The aim of the Queensland Water Recycling Strategy is to recycle as much water as possible in Queensland without harmful affects on people or the environment. The strategy, which involves all State Government departments, is led by the Department of Natural Resources and Water.
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