Topics > Water > Water in our towns and cities

Urban water programs and initiatives

On this page:

There are already a number of programs and initiatives underway that are contributing to our urban water management. Links to these are provided below.

Current initiatives

Click on the link to find out more

Ongoing programs

Ongoing urban water management programs across the state to deliver urban water services and/or improve the standard.

Putting water at the centre of urban design

In South Australia’s hot and dry climate putting water at the centre of the design of our homes, buildings and open spaces is essential.

Water Sensitive SA is a collaborative program that provides information and advice on putting water at the centre of designs in what are known as ‘water sensitive urban design’ projects. The Water Sensitive SA Website includes an interactive map of installed WSUD projects around South Australia.

Iconic Adelaide locations with smart water features

Today smart water management is a common feature in many developments in South Australian Towns and cities.

The iconic South Australian places listed below are some examples from our towns and cities that have put water at the centre of their design to create cooler spaces, save operating costs and improve environmental performance.

Adelaide Oval uses reclaimed wastewater for oval irrigation and toilets. Water efficient appliances through all buildings.

Adelaide Zoo has a web based water management tool to find leaks and deliver future savings.

Adelaide Airport uses reclaimed wastewater and harvested stormwater for irrigation and toilets. Has implemented an irrigation management plan.

Wayville Showgrounds Goyder Pavilion has a 3.5 million litre underground water tank that captures roof rainwater and stormwater for use.

Royal Adelaide Hospital uses reclaimed wastewater and harvested stormwater for irrigation and toilets. High efficiency water fittings throughout.

Adelaide Parklands uses reclaimed wastewater for irrigation.

SAHMRI uses reclaimed wastewater and captured rainwater for toilet flushing and all irrigation with smart irrigation controls. High efficiency water fittings throughout.

SA Water House uses reclaimed wastewater and captured rainwater for toilet flushing. High efficiency water fittings throughout.

Mawson Lakes has reclaimed water supplied throughout the suburb for open space and for residents to water gardens, wash cars and flush toilets.

Urban developments such as Lochiel Park and St Clair have incorporated the use of rainwater, stormwater and reclaimed water as well as water sensitive landscaping.

Schools use recycled water for irrigating ovals at many schools.

Coopers brewery uses local groundwater for production of beer.

Botanic Gardens has a stormwater wetland with aquifer storage.

Marion Cultural Centre Stormwater is captured and used for public toilet flushing, water efficient fixtures and fittings and water efficient landscaping.