WSAA has been working with Standards Australia and a committee of industry experts to develop an Australian Standard for what can be flushed down the toilet.

"We know blockages caused by wipes and other products disrupt customer services, create extra costs for water utilities and customers, and impact the environment through sewage overflows", said Mr Adam Lovell, Executive Director, WSAA.

"The recent court decision in the case between the ACCC and Kimberley-Clark highlighted the need for an appropriate standard for Australia and WSAA is leading the development of an Australian Standard for Flushable Products”, said Mr Lovell.

Mr Lovell added, "Standards Australia has today confirmed the development of this Standard and its importance given recent increases in blockages experienced by water utilities and customers across Australia". Read the Standards Australia release here.

“Until the Standard is finalised we advise consumers to only flush the 3Ps – Pee, Poo and toilet Paper! Recently, we were excited to see messaging in Woolworths stores that helps communicate to customers that only toilet paper can be flushed.

The Australian Standard will include pass/fail criteria along with appropriate labelling requirements and is being developed by manufacturers, water utilities, peak bodies and consumer groups", said Mr Lovell.

The required testing for the Standard development has been impacted by COVID-19 and a draft is expected to be released for public consultation in the next few months.

 

2 Jul 2020

Sandi Kolbe

Sandi Kolbe

Communications Manager