Key messages
- Water suppliers can seek exemptions from water quality standards.
- Water suppliers should consult with the affected community before applying for an exemption.
- The Minister for Health may approve applications with certain conditions.
Section 20 of the Safe Drinking Water Act 2003 (the Act) allows water suppliers to seek exemptions from the drinking water quality standards. The current standards are specified in regulation 16 of the Safe Drinking Water Regulations 2025.
With an exemption, water suppliers do not need to meet a specified quality standard during the exemption period. However, they still need to monitor and manage for any risks associated with the exempted parameter. Any exemption granted may also specify particular conditions on the exemption.
For example, if a bushfire impacts a catchment area, the supplier may apply for an exemption from the turbidity standard of 5 NTU until the sediment has passed. During the exemption period, the supplier must still continue to monitor turbidity levels and manage associated risks.
Exemption applications
Use the Application for exemption: drinking water quality standards form to apply for an exemption.
You need to provide information as specified in section 20(2) of the Act, which includes:
- the standard from which the exemption is sought
- the water supply area or system affected and the reasons for the exemption
- the period during which the exemption would apply and the reasons for that period
- any benefits and adverse impacts the exemption is likely to introduce
- the risk prevention measures that will be taken if the application is approved
- a description of the consultation that has taken place regarding the proposal with a summary of the input provided.
Water suppliers should consult with the affected community before applying. This may include through community meetings, media notices or newsletters.
Exemption applications should include copies of relevant documents and correspondence used for public consultation.
Application outcome
The Department of Health reviews exemption applications and makes recommendations to the Minister for Health (the Minister). Under section 20(3) of the Act, the Minister may approve an application if they are satisfied that:
- adequate measures will be taken to minimise any public health risks
- the affected community has been adequately consulted
- the benefits of the exemption outweigh the impacts (including the likely costs).
Applicants will be notified in writing of the outcome.
Exemption conditions
Under section 21 of the Act, approved exemptions may include certain conditions, such as a timeframe for the exemption.
Conditions may be specified when the exemption is approved, or at a later date with written notice from the Minister.
Reviewed 18 August 2025