Water quality guidelines
ANZECC guidelines
The Australian and New Zealand Environment and Conservation Council (ANZECC) is the peak Ministerial Council for inter-governmental consultation and coordination on environmental and nature conservation matters. ANZECC Guidelines for Fresh and Marine Water Quality incorporate both community expectations and scientific research, and form a cornerstone of the National Water Quality Management Strategy.
Water for drinking, farming, ecosystems and recreational uses is examined in detail.
At the same time, the Guidelines for Water Quality Monitoring and Reporting were produced as a reference for those involved with the many aspects of water management and supply.
The SCA rigorously adheres to the guidelines set out in both documents and strives to meet those standards at all times.
Australian Drinking Water Guidelines
The Australian Drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG) define the characteristics of good quality drinking water, addressing both health and aesthetic properties.
Sydney Water Corporation, councils and other customers supplied with raw water by the SCA are required to meet the health-related pararmeters of the ADWG.
For parameters that cannot be altered by water treatment processes, including pesticides and heavy metals, the SCA monitors levels in the catchment and storages, and undertakes management activities to ensure levels are in line with the ADWG.
The SCA reports on its compliance with the ADWG each year in its annual report and annual water quality monitoring report.
