Septic Systems

Domestic Wastewater in Baw Baw

The greater Baw Baw area is known for its natural landscapes, agricultural productivity and successful communities. Part of protecting these values includes the sustainable management of onsite domestic wastewater (septic systems).

The Baw Baw Shire Council like all other municipalities in Victoria manages onsite domestic wastewater in accordance with the Environment Protection Act 1970.

Public Health

Poorly managed wastewater can cause negative health impacts both at the local scale (for example, a few people that come into contact with wastewater) to large numbers of people from untreated wastewater polluting drinking water supply.


Wastewater can increase the nitrogen and phosphorus present in local waterways. Increased nitrogen and phosphorus increases the growth of algae and weeds, negatively impacting the health of our aquatic ecosystems.