Strengthening the Voice for Rainwater Harvesting
As we move into 2026, the Rainwater Harvesting Association continues to strengthen its voice for the industry. In this edition, we reflect on a landmark year of achievements, share the latest advocacy updates, and remind members and supporters of a few important actions.
2025 Highlights
2025 was defined by real policy progress and a growing industry voice. Key highlights include:
- Finalised the National Rainwater Harvesting Policy, underpinned by modelling from Professor Coombes, supporting a 30% stormwater reduction target
- Actively engaged with the ABCB on NCC 2025 development — work that continues into 2026
- Successfully advocated for the removal of unfavourable rainwater harvesting provisions in AS3500:2025
- Presented at Ozwater ’25 and had a policy paper accepted for the IWA Water Efficiency Conference
- Chaired the AWA Rainwater Harvesting Members Circle featuring presentations from Sydney Water, Organica Engineering, and Blue Mountain Co
National Construction Code Submission
The Rainwater Harvesting Association made a submission to the National Construction Code review being conducted by Treasury. We called for a transparent process for rainwater harvesting regulation — one with a clear rationale and a public report outlining community benefits and likely costs of compliance.
Following the submission, we met with Adrian Piani, the recently appointed CEO of the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB), to discuss our submission and the history of ABCB and rainwater harvesting regulation.
ASBEC Meeting — Brisbane
Michael Smit attended the Australian Sustainable Built Environment Council (ASBEC) in Brisbane on 5 March. ASBEC has played a key role in connecting RHA to senior bureaucrats across State and Federal Government, including facilitating our most recent ABCB meeting. While ASBEC is primarily focused on energy issues in Australia, there is growing opportunity to elevate water issues within that forum.
NSW Department of Planning Submission
The Rainwater Harvesting Association made a submission to the NSW Department of Planning, highlighting the role of rainwater harvesting in managing stormwater flows from existing urban areas and reducing flood risks.
Members & Supporters — Call for Logos and Images
Our new RHA website is coming — and we want to make sure all our members and supporters are represented.
Please send us:
- Your company logo (high resolution, PNG or SVG preferred)
- Any images you are happy for us to use on the website
Send your assets to info@rha.org.au with the subject line: Website Assets — [Your Company Name]
Thank You to Our Founding Members and Supporters
ASC Water Tanks • Ascento Group Australia • Beltrami Group • Bushman Tanks
• Davey Water Products • Elemental Solutions • Graf Australia • Grundfos Pumps
• Kingspan Water & Energy • Nash Water • Never Stop Water • Q Tank • Rain Harvesting
• Rotomade • SFA Australia • White International • Yarra Plastics
Thank you to all members and supporters who have contributed to RHA’s growing momentum.
We look forward to sharing further updates, industry insights, and policy progress through 2026.
For membership and enquiries: info@rha.org.au