Which water users need a meter?

You may need a water meter depending on the type of authorisation or works you have.

Water supply scheme or channel scheme customers

Scheme operators are required to measure water taken by their customers.

The scheme operator will specify measurement requirements in the water supply contract. These would usually provide detail about:

  • who owns the meter
  • operation and maintenance of the meter
  • access to the meter
  • what to do if the meter becomes faulty
  • any requirements to install other devices, such as telemetry.

Metered entitlement holders or holders of relevant authorisations

Depending on your location, you may hold a 'metered entitlement' or ‘relevant authorisation’. The areas of Queensland where entitlements are, or will soon be required to be, metered are listed in Schedule 11 of the Water Regulation 2016 (the Regulation).

If you hold a metered entitlement or a relevant authorisation then you must:

Note that you do not need to install a meter for a metered entitlement or relevant authorisation if:

  • you do not extract any water against this water authorisation
  • you only extract water for watering stock and/or for household use where a water authorisation is not required
  • you meet a threshold or exemption stated for your area in Schedule 11 of the Regulation.

In some cases, holders of metered entitlements or relevant authorisations may also extract water supplied by a scheme operator through the same works used for the metered entitlement. In these cases, you are responsible for ensuring:

  • the meter being used is a validated (certified)
  • you notify us and the scheme operator if the meter becomes faulty.

Contact your local business centre if you are unsure.

Other water users

You may be required to have a meter installed if any of the water charges mentioned in Schedule 14 of the Water Regulation 2016 apply to you.

  • Last reviewed: 22 Jul 2024
  • Last updated: 22 Jul 2024