For those managing water extraction licences in the Northern Territory, understanding your water metering obligations isn’t just about compliance – it’s about smart water management and securing our vital resources for the future. With new national standards now firmly in place, ensuring your water meter is “pattern approved” is more crucial than ever.
At Think Water Darwin, we’re dedicated to helping NT water users not only meet these requirements but also benefit from precise, reliable metering solutions.
The Non-Urban Water Metering Code: What You Need to Know
Across Australia, states and territories have united under a national approach to non-urban water metering, driven by the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water. This consistency is vital for accurate water accounting and sustainable management.
In the Northern Territory, just like other regions, this translates into adherence to the Non-Urban Water Metering Code of Practice for Water Extraction Licences. This Code sets out clear terms for water metering and reporting, dictating how meters must be installed, maintained and perform.
Here are the key takeaways for NT water users:
- Accuracy is Paramount: Your water meter must be “fit for purpose” and capable of recording water volume within a +/- 5% accuracy when correctly installed. This precision is vital for fair and accurate water accounting.
- Key Dates for Compliance:
- Any water meter installed after 30 June 2017 must comply with this Code.
- Crucially, all meters – new and existing – must meet the requirements of the Code by 1 July 2027. This means there’s a clear deadline to ensure your current setup is compliant.
What Does ‘Pattern Approved’ Mean for Your Meter?
So, how do you prove your meter meets that vital +/- 5% accuracy? The Code provides two pathways for certification:
- Pattern Approval: This is a rigorous process under the National Measurement Regulations. It signifies that a specific model of water meter has been thoroughly tested and proven to consistently meet accuracy and performance standards, often in accordance with the Australian Standard for non-urban water meters (AS4747). When a meter is ‘pattern approved’, it means its design and construction have been certified as compliant.
- Accredited Testing: Alternatively, a certificate can be issued by a recognised and accredited testing institution, verifying the meter’s capability against standards like AS4747.
Choosing a pattern approved meter simplifies your compliance journey, as the fundamental design itself is already certified.
Your Solution: The Bermad Turbo-IR Water Meter
At Think Water Darwin, we understand the unique conditions and needs of the Northern Territory. That’s why we proudly stock the Bermad Turbo-IR Water Meter, a prime example of a Pattern Approved non-urban Water Meter.
The Bermad Turbo-IR is specifically designed to meet the stringent requirements of the Non-Urban Water Metering Code and complies with AS4747. Its pattern approval provides you with the assurance that you’re installing a meter capable of the precise accuracy demanded by regulations.
By choosing a Bermad Turbo-IR, you’re not just buying a meter; you’re investing in:
- Guaranteed Accuracy: Confidence that your readings meet the +/- 5% requirement.
- Compliance Peace of Mind: Knowing your installation aligns with current and future regulations.
- Reliable Performance: A meter built to withstand the demands of non-urban water extraction in the Top End.
Partner with Think Water Darwin for Compliance
Don’t wait until the 2027 deadline. Proactive compliance ensures you’re managing your water responsibly, avoiding potential issues, and contributing to sustainable water practices in the Northern Territory.
Think Water Darwin is your local expert for all non-urban water metering solutions. Our team can help you understand these changes, advise on the best pattern approved options like the Bermad Turbo-IR, and ensure your installation meets all Code requirements.
Ready to ensure your water metering is up to standard? Contact Think Water Darwin today for expert advice and reliable pattern approved metering solutions.
