14 January 2025
Southern Downs Regional Council is reminding property owners with backflow prevention devices to ensure their devices are registered and tested annually by a licensed plumber to maintain the safety and quality of the region’s reticulated drinking water supply.
Under the
Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019 (s103), property owners with irrigation systems, fire hose reels, commercial or industrial equipment, water outlets near pollutants or an alternate water supply may require a compliant backflow prevention device. Penalties apply for unregistered or untested devices.
Council’s Acting Director Planning and Environmental Services Nicole Collett said backflow prevention devices play a vital role in preventing potentially harmful polluted water from entering the drinking water supply if systems fail.
“Council works closely with property owners to reduce contamination risks, ensuring backflow prevention devices are properly maintained,” Ms Collett said.
"To ensure your backflow prevention device operates correctly, it is important to have it maintained and tested annually by a licensed plumber with backflow prevention accreditation, as required by the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019.
“Regular testing helps prevent potential issues such as backflow incidents, water leakage and pressure reduction on your property which may pose public health risks.
“Owners who are unsure about whether a device can be replaced or removed should consult a licensed backflow prevention plumber.”
Licensed plumbers must submit a
Queensland Government Form 9 to Council within 10 business days of completing work on a backflow prevention device. This ensures Council can accurately maintain the Backflow Register and send annual reminders to property owners.
For more information about backflow prevention requirements and compliance, visit Council’s website at
https://www.sdrc.qld.gov.au/doing-business/plumbing-drainage/backflow-prevention or contact Council on 1300 697 372.
Last edited date 14 Jan 2025