Trade Waste Management Plan
Liquid waste generated by industry, small business and commercial enterprises are referred to as trade waste. The Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 prohibits the unauthorised discharge of wastes, other than domestic sewage, into sewerage systems. The options for producers of trade waste are to have it treated at an approved treatment facility, obtain approval from us to discharge trade waste to a sewerage system, or to obtain an environmental authority under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to treat the trade waste before discharging the liquid waste to the environment.
The Trade Waste Management Plan outlines how we regulate, accept and manage trade waste discharged into the sewerage system. It explains the legislative framework, approval processes, pre‑treatment requirements and conditions that trade waste generators must meet to protect public health, infrastructure, and the environment. The plan sets out our responsibilities, the obligations of businesses, the assessment criteria for trade waste approvals and the standards required to ensure that only suitable, biodegradable waste enters the sewer network. Overall, it provides a structured approach to minimising risks, ensuring compliance, and supporting sustainable wastewater management across the region.