The policy has been reviewed and there are no proposed changes from the existing policy.
Background
This policy outlines how the risks associated On-Site Sewage Management Systems (OSSMs) are managed.
There are currently around 7000 OSSMs in Queanbeyan-Palerang, servicing dwellings with no access to reticulated sewer. The failure of an OSSM can be a source of serious environmental and public health concern.
The policy aims to:
- Outline the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders regarding OSSMs.
- Guide property owners towards sustainable on-site management of sewage and wastewater (excluding liquid trade waste).
- Protect and enhance the quality of public health and the environment in the long term.
- Coordinate environmental assessment, data collection and monitoring which is related to on-site sewage management.
- Assist Council to prioritise resources for the efficient regulation and monitoring of on-site sewage management systems within its area.
- Support water quality objectives in the drinking water catchments.
- Ensure that all on-site sewage management systems in the area meet the various water catchment authorities current recommended practices and standards
Have your say
The 2025 review of the On-Site Sewage Management Policy is open for community comment from Tuesday 1 July until Tuesday 29 July 2025. The draft Policy may be viewed:
- In the electronic Document Library on this page
- At Council’s Customer Service Centres, between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday
Feedback can be provided on the draft Policy through:
- Completing an Online Submission Form (below)
- Emailing it directly to council@qprc.nsw.gov.au with the subject title On-Site Sewage Management Policy
- Hand writing your submission and delivering it to Council's Customer Service Centres
- Posting your submission to PO Box 90, Queanbeyan NSW 2620