Wastewater Issues

Click through the topics below to learn more about wastewater:

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Blockages

If water is not flowing down your sink or if your toilet is blocked there could be a blocked pipe. Determining whether this blockage is within your property boundary can be difficult and we suggest you call Council before a commercial plumber. 

It's also helpful to check to see if your neighbours are experiencing the same problem. If your property is the only one affected you may have a blocked pipe. 

Council has Wastewater Operators on-call 24/7 who can investigate if the problem is within Council’s sewer lines and therefore our responsibility to fix. You can contact Council on 1300 864 444 or use the after hours number 02 6626 6954.

If Council staff determine the problem is not in the sewer main you will then need to contact a private plumber to fix the issue. You will never be charged for Council’s investigation, even if it requires a site visit. 

If the blockage is within your property the owner will be responsible for the plumbing bill.

The best way to avoid a blocked toilet is to remember the Three Ps. Only flush Pee, Poo and Paper down your toilet. Any other materials such as wet wipes, cotton buds, sanitary items and dental floss do not break down and could eventually block your pipes. 

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Odour 

Is there an odour around your house or garden, or can you smell something on Council-controlled land? 

Try to pinpoint where the smell is coming from. Is it from: 

• your property 
• nearby mangroves or wetlands 
• drainage channel 
• stormwater drain 
• council-operated wastewater facilities 

If the smell is coming from your property this could indicate a problem with your sewage/wastewater system such as a blocked pipe. You should call a plumber to investigate.  

If the smell is coming from a stormwater drain or from a Council facility please call us so we can investigate the cause.