Australia is no stranger to drought, dry spells, or scorching summers. Yet, many of us don’t realise just how much water the average household uses each day—or how easily we can take pressure off our mains supply and wallets with something as simple as a rainwater tank.

How Much Water Does the Average Australian Home Use?

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the average household uses around 900 litres of water per day. That’s over 300,000 litres per year for a typical family!

Here’s where most of it goes:

• Garden and outdoor use: ~40%
• Toilets, showers & laundry: ~50%
• Kitchen and drinking: ~10%

With outdoor watering being the single largest use—especially during summer—it’s no surprise water restrictions often kick in during dry spells.

Enter the Rainwater Tank: A Simple, Smart Water Solution

Installing a rainwater tank is one of the most effective ways to cut down mains water usage, lower your water bills, and build a more drought-resilient home. Even a modest-sized tank can make a noticeable difference.

Here’s how:

Collect free water from your roof

A 150m² roof in an area receiving 600mm of annual rainfall can collect 90,000 litres of water each year. That’s enough to supply:

• All your outdoor watering needs
• Toilet flushing and laundry (if plumbed internally)
• Backup water for dry seasons

Cut back reliance on mains

Using tank water for the garden alone can reduce your overall usage by up to 40%. Go one step further and connect your tank to your toilet or washing machine, and savings stack up fast.

Prepare for drought and restrictions

Tanks give you control—especially when restrictions limit what you can do with mains water. With a rainwater supply, you can keep your garden green, wash the car, or top up the pool even in dry months.

Real Impact: Environmental and Financial

• Less strain on town water systems
• Reduced stormwater runoff and erosion
• Lower water bills over time
• Boost your property’s sustainability profile

In regional areas or on lifestyle properties, a large tank isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Many homes outside urban centres rely solely on tank water for everyday living.

How Big Should Your Tank Be?

Tank size depends on your space, usage, and goals. Here’s a quick guide:

Usage Type	Suggested Tank Size
Garden & outdoor use	3,000–5,000 litres
Toilet & laundry (internal use)	5,000–10,000 litres
Full household supply	22,500–32,000 litres

Take the Next Step

Whether you live in town or on the land, adding a rainwater tank to your property is a smart, future-proof decision. It’s good for the environment, your wallet, and your peace of mind.

At RapidPlas, we offer a full range of tanks—from compact backyard units to high-capacity rural tanks—and can help you find the perfect fit based on your roof size, location, and water goals.

Ready to capture the next downpour?
Get in touch today for tailored advice or a quote.