Media Release
11th August 2026
Draft Integrated Water Cycle Management Strategy on Public Exhibition
Cowra Shire Council is inviting the community to review and provide feedback on its Draft Integrated Water Cycle Management Strategy, which will be on public exhibition from the 11th of August 2026 to the 2nd of September 2026.
Mayor Cr Paul Smith said the draft strategy is an important long-term planning document that will help guide the future of Cowra's water supply and sewerage services.
"This strategy is about planning ahead to ensure our community continues to have access to safe, secure and affordable water and sewerage services well into the future, importantly the strategy reinforces the critical need for continued state and federal funding of essential infrastructure upgrades" Cr Smith said.
The strategy examines how Council sources, treats, supplies and manages water, while also planning for sewage collection, treatment and disposal. It brings together water and sewerage planning with broader considerations such as population growth, housing needs, infrastructure requirements and long-term financial sustainability.
"Water and sewerage services affect residents, businesses and community organisations in our shire. They support public health, economic development and the liveability of our communities," Cr Smith said.
The draft strategy also considers future growth projections and the infrastructure needed to support that growth over time. It includes modelling of future water and sewerage pricing and developer charges, with a strong focus on maintaining affordability for the community.
Council is seeking feedback from residents, businesses, community groups and industry stakeholders to help ensure the strategy reflects community priorities and clearly communicates the opportunities and challenges facing the local water utility.
"We encourage everyone to take the time to read the draft strategy and have their say. Community feedback is an important part of the process and will help inform future decision-making," Cr Smith said.
The strategy also provides an opportunity for the community to better understand where Cowra's drinking water comes from, how it is treated and supplied, and what happens after water is used. It outlines the regulatory environment in which Council operates, including requirements from NSW Health, the NSW Environment Protection Authority and the NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water.
The Draft Integrated Water Cycle Management Strategy can be viewed here during the exhibition period.
Have Your Say
Submissions are invited from the 11th of August 2026 to the 2nd of September 2026.
Community members can:
- View the draft strategy a at: Public exhibition | Cowra Council
- Email submissions to: council@cowra.nsw.gov.au
- Contact 6340 2070 for further information or a briefing from staff on any particular aspects of the draft strategy.
ENDS