Macedon Range council is preparing a new Onsite Wastewater Management Plan for 2025-2030, and is seeking community feedback.
Under the Environment Protection Act 2017, council is responsible for regulating onsite wastewater systems in unsewered areas, including assessing permits and ensuring systems are well-maintained.
The plan will address public and environmental health risks from septic system wastewater, and outline risk management strategies. Proper installation, maintenance and management of systems is essential to protect human health and the environment.
Director planning and environment Rebecca Stockfield said if you own or rent a property with an onsite wastewater system, you are legally responsible for ensuring it is operated and maintained.
“Much of our housing around our major towns – particularly newly built housing – is able to be connected to mains sewerage, however we have about 8500 properties across our shire registered as having their own onsite wastewater systems,” she said.
“Wastewater issues have been known to lead to issues such as contaminated drinking water, foul smells, and animal or human illness, so it is important that we support the proper management of these systems.
“Whether you’re a resident with a septic tank, a plumber, landholder, or simply interested in protecting water quality, your feedback is valuable in informing the actions we’ll commit to in supporting those relevant properties and the broader environment.”
This initial consultation is the first of a two-stage external consultation process, with feedback received from this first stage forming the development of the draft plan, which will then be exhibited for further consultation.
The new plan will propose initiatives to support landowners and the broader community, including developing educational materials for new property owners with septic systems, provide guidance and support to plumbers and digitise historical wastewater records.
Feedback is open now until Sunday, June 1 and can be given online at yoursay.mrsc.vic.gov.au/OWMP
