Replace the lawn on your nature strip with an approved water efficient design and save time, money and the environment!
Riverina Water advises that applications have now closed for The Riverina Urban Nature Strip Lawn Replacement Rebate Scheme. Customers who have already been offered a rebate must book a final inspection before 30th June 2013 or rebate funding can not be guaranteed.
The incentive scheme, which is a first of its kind in Australia, aims to encourage residents to think sustainably and consider ways of reducing water usage while maintaining beautiful streetscapes across Wagga Wagga and surrounding districts.
The scheme is partially funded through Riverina Water County Council (RWCC) and the Australian Government's Water For The Future initiative through the Strengthening Basin Communities program.
Why reduce lawn area?
Current levels of summer water usage throughout the Riverina Water service area are unsustainable. Over 50 per cent of summer water is used on residential lawns and gardens. We're looking for ways to ensure the region uses less water in the future. One way to do this is to reduce the amount of lawn.
Lawn alternatives will require less watering and less maintenance - saving time and money and promoting a more sustainable level of water usage.
There are many alternatives to lawn including drought-tolerant plant species. Local suppliers are increasingly stocking these water saving plants. Click here to explore the lawn alternative garden options.
Am I eligible for a rebate?
Eligibility for the rebate is subject to strict conditions and individual assesment by Riverina Water. It is based on nature strip size, water consumption and current and historical lawn condition.
Rebate funding is limited and will be offered on a first-come first-served basis to customers who plan to replace lawn on their nature strips with alternative water efficient gardens, in accordance with local Council guidelines. Click here to see the Wagga Wagga City Council guidelines.
Residents of all other Shires should contact their local Council office directly for more information on relevant guidelines.
Note - Rebates will not be offered without assesment and approval by Riverina Water of existing lawn nature strips.
What do I do next?
Residents should not do anything to their nature strip lawn without contacting Riverina Water first. Applications should be made to Riverina Water who will then conduct individual eligibility assesments, including nature strip inspections.
A handy Step-by-Step Guide is aslo available to give you all the information you need to get started on your nature strip lawn replacement. Click here to view the guide online.
For more information please call our Nature Strip Rebate Scheme Hotline on (02) 6922 0636 or click here to enquire online.
You can also drop in and see us at; 91 Hammond Ave, Wagga Wagga.
For a list of local Contractors that understand the scheme click here.
