The region has 5 water and 13 sewerage systems plus a recycled water scheme supporting residents, farms, and major processors in Wynyard and Smithton. Aging, underinvested infrastructure and rising expectations drive upgrades like Smithton’s main pump station to reduce overflow risk and support growth. Many smaller towns also need investment to cut environmental impact and meet future demand, forming part of our long-term plan.
The North West region’s population is not expected to grow over 50 years, but up to 4,700 lots could be developed if zoning allows. Growth may occur around Burnie, Somerset, Wynyard, Sisters Beach, Boat Harbour Beach, and Stanley. Forecasting is uncertain, as major food processors drive trade waste flows and future expansion is unpredictable. We will monitor trends and adjust its Master Plan to support development and service needs.
A Dam Safety Review identified that Pet Dam no longer meets industry best practice, with concerns around the condition and capacity of the spillway, as well as potential seepage risks along key structures. These risks were highlighted during a flood event in June 2016 which caused significant damage to the spillway. TasWater is upgrading dam infrastructure including replacing the spillway and Circular Road bridge, and improving the embankment and pipework.
Climate change in Tasmania is likely to bring warmer temperatures, rising sea levels, and more extreme weather, impacting water supply, quality, and demand. These changes threaten water treatment and sewerage infrastructure, potentially requiring new solutions and adaptations.
Our drinking water comes from dams, rivers, and groundwater bores before treatment and delivery. Many rivers already experience low flows, and licensed allocations can’t meet growing demand. Drier conditions could further reduce river flows and groundwater levels, making unrestricted supply harder. TasWater’s Water Security Strategy guides long-term planning to avoid restrictions and promote water conservation at home and work.
If population grows as expected, existing pipes, pumps, reservoirs, and treatment plants may lack capacity. Many assets are aging and need costly upgrades or replacement, prioritised by development timing, community benefit, and compliance. Some areas may require new water and sewerage connections to support growth, address climate impacts, or improve reliability. Service introductions follow policy, requiring community support and cost recovery.
About 24% of water produced in the North West region is lost due to leaks, theft, metering errors, or operational use. Efforts are underway to cut these losses and reduce stormwater infiltration into sewerage systems, aiming to delay costly upgrades and extend infrastructure lifespan.
TasWater must meet strict health and environmental standards for water quality and discharge. Aging infrastructure and past underinvestment mean some assets fall short of compliance, but progress is underway. We’ve improved water quality and reliability and continue working to close gaps to meet regulatory targets and deliver safe, sustainable services for customers and communities.
The treated water from the plant is ‘polished’ by the soil and vegetation in the wetlands to naturally remove nutrients before it is released into the environment. In recent years, the Currie wetlands have been affected by increased flows, sludge build-up, weeds and overgrown vegetation. By cleaning, restoring, and replanting the ponds, we’re helping the wetlands bounce back to full health so they can support our environment and community for years to come.
After looking at a range of options to guide our long-term investment in water and sewerage infrastructure, our preferred approach balances climate resilience, water security, customer expectations, environmental and health compliance, and cost. Download the PDF for more details.
Image 1 of 2
Image 1 of 2
Our nine masterplans outline the challenges, upgrades, and investments needed to strengthen Tasmania’s water infrastructure for the next 50 years
Since creation, the palawa have lived here in lutruwita - Tasmania. Over 2,000 generations of Aboriginal families have cared for this Country, looking after its lands, seas, skies and waterways.
In the spirit of respect and gratitude, TasWater acknowledges the Tasmanian Aboriginal community as the traditional and ongoing custodians. We pay our respects to them, their culture and to elders past and present. We also acknowledge any Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are here with us today.
TasWater commits to working collaboratively and respectfully with the Tasmanian Aboriginal community to protect and sustain the precious resources on this ancient land for future generations.
Have questions or want to learn more about a project, contact us below:
| Phone | 13 6992 |
|---|---|
| Website | www.taswater.com.au |
| In writing | GPO Box 1393, Hobart TAS 7001 |
