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Council provides a bulk drinking water supply for rural customers (within the Bathurst Local Government Area but outside the city water supply network) and approved construction and works projects. This water supply is accessed through four dedicated bulk drinking water filling stations located in Hereford Street between the Macquarie River and Gilmour Street.

The water is sourced from the Bathurst water supply system and has been treated to meet the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines. The water must be used in a conservative manner that is consistent with Bathurst’s current level of water restrictions.

Cost of Bulk Water

The cost of bulk water is currently $5 per kilolitre (1000L) and may be subject to change.

Accessing Bulk Water

Step 1: Bulk Water Permit
To access the bulk drinking water, all customers must first obtain a Bulk Water Permit Application and email it to  or present it in person at the Engineering Counter (Top floor, Civic Centre, 158 Russell Street).

Step 2: User Registration
Once a permit is obtained, all paying customers will need to complete a one-off User Registration Form – Hereford Street Water Filling Stations. This can be returned to Council in person (Engineering Counter, Top floor, Civic Centre, 158 Russell Street) or via email at .

Council will aim to process registration forms immediately upon receipt but may require up to two working days before registration is confirmed. Customers are therefore encouraged to complete the registration process well in advance of needing access to water.

Once these steps are completed, customers are able to access the water stations at any time. The Bulk Water Filling Station User Instructions describe equipment requirements and machine operating instructions. 

Water Carters

As per the Public Health Act 2010 and Public Health Regulation 2012, bulk water carters who supply water to third parties must develop and adhere to a Quality Assurance Program (QAP). The QAP aims to ensure safe drinking water is provided to end users and must be submitted to NSW Health. Water carters must keep detailed records, undertake regular inspections, use appropriate equipment, and ensure tanks are clean and disinfected. See NSW Health Guidelines for Water Carters for details.

Documents and Links

Bulk Water Filling Station User Instructions
User Registration Form – Hereford Street Water Filling Stations
Bulk Water Permit Application
Water Restrictions
NSW Health Guidelines for Water Carters