Backflow prevention
Westernport Water recognises that backflow from properties has the potential to contaminate the water distribution network, and as such, we have identified a program of works to mitigate and manage any potential risks to safeguard the drinking water supply and the community.
We are working collaboratively with our commercial customers to ensure they meet all relevant compliance standards.
Further information Backflow Prevention – Information Sheet.
Backflow prevention annual testing program
Westernport Water is responsible for the safe delivery of drinking water to the community. Property owners, however, are responsible for ensuring that backflow does not occur on their property.
If your property was identified as Medium or High risk, and requires a backflow prevention device, you are also required to comply with the annual testing program to protect public health and maintain water quality. Backflow Prevention Device Testing Program – 2025
Backflow annual testing options
Westernport Water is committed to ensuring our customers and community are provided safe, high-quality drinking water.
To ensure the safety of the public drinking water network, Westernport Water requires backflow customers to respond to this notice indicating their preferred option for backflow annual testing and payment type. Let us know your preferred option.
Backflow Prevention Testing Option Notice – 2025
FAQs
What is backflow?
Backflow occurs when potentially unsafe water flows in reverse into the drinking water supply. This water may contain contaminants that pose a risk to public health.
How is backflow prevention categorised?
Backflow Prevention is broken into three different categories Low, Medium & High Risk, if your property is identified as a Medium or High risk as per the AS/NZS 3500.1.2021 then a testable Backflow prevention device is required to be installed immediately downstream of the Water Meter for containment protection.
Why do I need a backflow prevention device installed at my property?
A backflow prevention device is designed to prevent the reverse flow of potentially contaminated water into the drinking water supply, helping to protect public health and maintain water quality.
Why is Westernport Water making customers test their backflow prevention devices?
Westernport Water is committed to ensuring that our customers and community are provided with safe and high-quality drinking water. Annual testing of installed backflow prevention devices is a requirement to ensure compliance with the Australian Standard AS/NZS 2845.1.
Historically, it has been the customer’s responsibility to engage a backflow-qualified plumber to test their device and provide Westernport Water with the test report. This has resulted in a lack of consistency and, at times, impacts on reliability, and increased administration from Westernport Water’s perspective.
Westernport Water is responsible for the safe delivery of drinking water to the community. Property owners, however, are responsible for ensuring that backflow does not occur on their property.
What is BackflowID?
BackflowID is an interactive asset tag system attached to a backflow prevention device. Scanning brings up context-specific workflows and information tailored to the tag. (e.g., plumber, inspector, property owner)
Westernport Water will also be implementing new software to assist with the management of the annual testing.
BackFlowID is a smart, scalable solution transforming how backflow prevention compliance is managed.
Scanning the tag allows:
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Licensed plumbers to upload test results, record service details, and automatically generate forms.
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Inspectors or regulators to review service history, oversee compliance in real-time, and receive prompt alerts for failed or overdue tests.
How long does the test take?
The test should take approximately 40 Minutes, providing no parts are required. Your Water will be isolated during the test period.
Who is responsible for backflow prevention?
Westernport Water is responsible for the safe delivery of drinking water to the community.
Property owners, however, are responsible for ensuring that backflow does not occur on their property.
When do I need to have the test completed by?
The licensed plumber engaged by Westernport Water will commence the program from mid-August 2025.
Once the backflow prevention device is installed, testing will be required each year, by the end of the year.
What happens if the test fails?
The plumber will provide Westernport Water with a quote for the works needed, and this will be provided to you. You will be given the option of whether you would like Westernport Water’s contractor to complete the works or if you would like to engage a private plumber.
What are the costs?
The total fee of $168.97 includes an annual testing fee of $81.82 and an administrative fee of $87.15.
If you choose Westernport Water to coordinate the annual testing of your backflow device. In that case, the service includes the annual testing conducted by a licensed specialist, booking and management of the inspection by Westernport Water.
Should your device require any maintenance or replacement, WPW will contact you with a detailed quote from our contractor.
Can I use my own plumber?
You are under no obligation to proceed with Westernport Water to carry out the annual backflow prevention device test; you are welcome to engage a backflow licensed plumber of your choice to do the test and complete any required works.
Do I have to be a part of the Backflow Device Annual Testing Program?
No, this is an opt-in service that Westernport Water is providing to assist customers with organising and paying for annual inspections.