Bulk water supply agreements
Under the Sydney Water Catchment Management Act 1998, the Sydney Catchment Authority (SCA) must establish agreed terms and conditions with each of its customers about the bulk water supply.
The terms and conditions of supply must address:
- water quality standards
- continuity of water supply
- costs the customer must pay for the water supply
- how to resolve disputes and handle complaints.
The SCA has developed bulk water supply agreements with Sydney Water and Shoalhaven City Council.
Bulk water supply agreement with Sydney Water
Under the bulk water supply agreement with Sydney Water, the SCA must provide bulk raw water to Sydney Water's nine water filtration plants, and meet nominated water quality standards or criteria.
The standards or criteria apply to the quality of water passing through the inlet to the various water treatment facilities. They are based on historical raw water quality data and the water treatment facility's ability to treat the water.
Other SCA customers
The SCA also supplies raw water to water filtration plants owned by Shoalhaven City Council and Wingecarribee Shire Council.
The SCA has finalised a bulk water supply agreement with Shoalhaven City Council, and is working towards an agreement with Wingecarribee Shire Council.
The management of bulk water quality is also influenced by:
- the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines
- Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) Water Quality Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Waters
