Essential Water is proposing a long-term sewer mains upgrade program across Broken Hill to improve service reliability and reduce blockages and interruptions for the community. 

Background to the project 

Broken Hill’s sewer network includes over 200 km of underground pipes, many of which are of similar age to the region’s water mains and have reached the end of their projected lifespan. These aging pipes are increasingly prone to blockages, overflows, and service disruptions. 

Rather than replacing the pipes entirely, Essential Water uses a relining method. Relining is a proven and cost-effective approach that restores the structural integrity of the pipes without the need for full excavation. 

What’s being proposed 

Essential Water is planning a significant uplift in its sewer mains renewal program. This includes: 

• Increasing the volume of relining works year-on-year 

• Targeting high-risk and problematic areas first 

• Reducing blockages and service interruptions 

• Extending the life of existing infrastructure 

• Improving environmental outcomes and system reliability 

This initiative is part of Essential Water’s broader infrastructure planning and is included in the 2025–2030 regulatory submission to IPART. 

Timeline and next steps 

This is an ongoing project as part of our maintenance commitment. 

Essential Water will provide regular updates on progress and upcoming works in affected areas.