21 December 2007

From 1 January 2008, it will be mandatory for all clothes washing machines and dishwashers to be labelled with water efficiency stickers so that consumers can compare how much water is used by different brands and models.

“Just as it’s important for people to make informed choices based on energy efficiency rating labels, they also need to know how water efficient their new products are,” Mr Garrett said.

“The Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme has been operating since early 2005. The labels give consumers information about the water consumption or flow rate of a variety of household appliances including clothes washing machines, dishwashers, sink tapware, showers, toilets and urinal equipment.

“Up till now washing machine and dishwasher manufacturers and retailers have been given a grace period to sell stock manufactured or imported before the labelling scheme was introduced.

“The grace period for clothes washing machines and dishwashers – regardless of their date of manufacture or import into Australia – ends on 31 December 2007. From next year it is mandatory for the labels to be displayed on these products.

“These products cannot be legally supplied without meeting these requirements. Non compliance may result in penalties, including fines or prosecution.

“In this six star system, a seven-kilo clothes washing machine with a two star rating could use approximately 147 litres of water per wash, whereas a machine of the same size with a four star rating could use about half that, a substantial saving.

“The Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme is an important water saving initiative that allows consumers to compare products at the point of sale. By choosing more water-efficient products to use in our homes, we can all save water and reduce energy consumption – and reduce our bills.”

The scheme was established by the Australian Government in partnership with all State and Territory Governments.

Consumers can check whether a product model has been registered under the Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme at http://search.waterrating.com.au.

Information about the Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme is available at www.waterrating.gov.au, or by telephoning 1800 803 772 or emailing WELS@environment.gov.au