Drinking water

The Safe Drinking Water Act 2003 came into effect on 1 July 2004, and is the first Act in Victoria to deal specifically with the regulation of drinking water supplies. Prior to this, the quality of drinking water was regulated through the Health Act 1958, the Health (Quality of Drinking Water) Regulations 2002, the Food Act 1984, and contractual and licence deeds between water businesses and the Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE).

The Drinking Water Regulatory Section, which has responsibility for the implementation and oversight of the Safe Drinking Water Act, is part of the Department of Health Victoria. The Drinking Water Regulatory Section will work with the Victorian water industry, other units within the Department of Health, key stakeholders and other government departments to deliver the regulatory objectives of the Act. More information about the unit can be found on the Department of Health website.

This section of the site contains information about:

• Victorian framework for water treatment operator competencies – Best practice guidelines

• Drinking Water Regulatory Audit

• Annual report
  The Department is required to prepare an annual report under section 32 of The Safe Drinking Water Act 2003.


• Legislation and regulations
  The Safe Drinking Water Act 2003 and documents associated with the development of the legislation.


• Guidelines and protocols
  To assist water businesses with the implementation of the legislation and associated regulations.

• Drinking water guidelines
  Guidelines covering bottled water, licensed venues and outdoors events, non-potable water in food businesses, water carting, water transport, and water conservation.

• Drinking water regulatory unit newsletter

• Links & resources

• Frequently asked questions

• Water company address list

• Seminars and workshops
  Presentations from the Drinking Water Regulatory Unit seminar program, and other useful links

The current overarching policy for water management in Victoria is the Government White Paper "Securing our Water Future Together".

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