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:

  1. In the electronic Document Library on this page
  2. At Council’s Customer Service Centres, between 8.30am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday

Feedback can be provided on the draft Policy through:

  1. Completing an Online Submission Form (below)
  2. Emailing it directly to council@qprc.nsw.gov.au with the subject title On-Site Sewage Management Policy
  3. Hand writing your submission and delivering it to Council's Customer Service Centres
  4. Posting your submission to PO Box 90, Queanbeyan NSW 2620
Only written submissions will be considered and these must be received by Council before Tuesday 29 July 2025. Please note that any submissions received may be included in the final report to Council.