Rebates flow for rainwater tanks in Armidale Region

28th Oct 2025

Armidale Regional Council (ARC) has announced the launch of the Rainwater Tank Rebate Program, an initiative designed to promote sustainable water use and reduce reliance on mains water supply. ARC said the program is not just about rebates - it’s about building resilience.
“Water security is a major focus for Council,” ARC Mayor Sam Coupland said. “With the increasing threat of future droughts and climate variability, we’re taking proactive steps to strengthen our community’s resilience.
“The expected growth from the New England Renewable Energy Zone (NEREZ) only adds urgency to our efforts to ensure long-term water sustainability.”
“Water conservation remains a priority, even during wetter periods, because securing our water future requires consistent, year-round action.”
The Rainwater Tank Rebate Program is also one of the action items from the recently endorsed Regional Drought Resilience Plan, developed in collaboration with Uralla Shire Council (USC) and Meridian Urban. This plan outlines a long-term vision for drought preparedness and sustainable infrastructure across the region.
Eligible residents who install rainwater tanks with a minimum capacity of 2,000 litres may receive a rebate of $250 for tanks between 2,000 and 10,000 litres, or $500 for tanks exceeding 10,000 litres. To qualify, properties must be located within the Armidale Region, and the tanks must be used for on-site rainwater collection and connected to the property.
Installations must comply with local plumbing and building codes and be completed by a licensed plumber. A one-off rebate is available for new homes that install rainwater tanks above and beyond the requirements of the Building Sustainability Index (BASIX). Only one rebate is available per existing residential property. Applications start on 3 November 2025. Rebates are subject to funding availability and may close early if funds are exhausted.
To apply, applicants must provide recent rates notice confirming the property’s location, along with photo identification that matches the address on the rate notice. A receipt and invoice clearly stating the tank size must be included, as well as a licensed plumber’s declaration form containing the plumber’s licence number and signature. For payment processing, a completed payment request form with bank account details is also required.
Payments may take up to four weeks to process. Councils may conduct random inspections to verify eligibility. Residents are encouraged to apply early to ensure access to available funding.