On-site Wastewater Management Plan (OWMP) Review
Mansfield Shire Council is inviting the community to provide feedback on the existing adopted On‑site Wastewater Management Plan (OWMP) 2022.
The OWMP sets out how Council manages existing and future on‑site wastewater systems (such as septic systems) across the Shire—particularly in areas without reticulated sewerage and within declared potable water supply catchments.
This is the first round of community engagement, and your feedback will help shape the updated Plan before it is refined and presented to Council.
Why the OWMP Matters
Around 95% of Mansfield Shire lies within a declared potable water supply catchment. How wastewater is treated and managed on private land plays a critical role in protecting:
- drinking water quality
- public health
- local waterways and Lake Eildon
- community amenity and environmental values
The OWMP takes a risk‑based approach, focusing effort where the potential impacts are greatest and reducing unnecessary regulation in lower‑risk areas.
About the Draft OWMP
The draft OWMP builds on Council’s earlier Domestic Wastewater Management Plan (2014) revised and adopted in 2022 and reflects:
- updated state legislation, including the Environment Protection Act 2017 and General Environmental Duty
- current EPA Codes of Practice
- improved data, mapping and risk analysis
- collaboration with key agencies such as Goulburn Murray Water, Goulburn Valley Water, and environmental health specialists
The Plan identifies high, medium and low‑risk catchments and sub‑catchments and sets out:
- expectations for new development
- requirements for land capability assessments
- how Council will monitor and manage existing systems
- priorities for education, compliance and infrastructure planning
Please review the current OWMP and provide feedback to help improve clarity, practicality and community understanding.
Feedback closes Thursday 28 May 2026.
Have Your Say
What We’re Seeking Feedback On
We’re particularly interested in your views on:
- whether the Plan is clear and easy to understand
- the proposed risk‑based approach
- expectations for landowners and developers
- education and support for system owners
- balancing water protection with practical and fair regulation
- Your feedback will help ensure the OWMP reflects community expectations while meeting Council’s legal and environmental responsibilities.
What Happens Next
After this first round of engagement:
- all feedback will be reviewed and considered
- the draft OWMP will be refined where appropriate
- a second round of consultation may be undertaken if significant changes are proposed
- the final Plan will be presented to Council for adoption later in 2026
This is your opportunity to provide early input before the Plan is finalised.
You can:
- Read the On‑site Wastewater Management Plan
- Complete the Online Survey
- Submit written feedback at the following locations:
- Council Offices
- Mansfield Library
- Visitor Information Centre
- Youth Centre
Thank you for taking the time to be involved and help protect Mansfield’s water, environment and community wellbeing.
Feedback closes Thursday 28 May 2026.
Consultation has concluded