Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024 (Victoria)

Mechanically, the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024 creates a self-contained licensing and technical regime for houseboats in the Lake Eildon recreational area. The Regulations are made under s 324 of the Water Act 1989 (reg 2) and commenced on 10 June 2024 (reg 3). They revoke the earlier 2013 and 2017 houseboat regulations (reg 4). The text sets out: (a) a mandatory licence to leave or operate any houseboat on the Lake (reg 6); (b) application, fee, inspection and issue processes (regs 7-9 and Schedule 3); (c) eligibility criteria and technical prerequisites that must be satisfied before a licence is issued (reg 8 and Schedules 1 and 2); (d) limits on vessel size (reg 8(1)(a)); (e) a discretionary cap on the total number of licences for a 12‑month period, with a required public notice procedure (reg 10); (f) offences and civil penalties for operating without a licence, for unauthorised discharges or deposits into holding tanks and greywater systems, and for unauthorised alterations to those systems (regs 6, 17-19, 20-22); and (g) a regulatory transition that distinguishes new, existing and pre‑existing greywater systems and imposes phased technical standards and compliance dates (definitions in reg 5; reg 8(2); Schedule 2 Parts 3 and 5).

The stated objectives are administrative and environmental: to provide for the control and management of houseboats in the Lake Eildon recreational area and to mitigate risks to human health and the environment from houseboat wastewater (reg 1). These purpose claims are set beside concrete duties that place statutory prerequisites on owners: obtaining a permanent mooring, fitting compliant blackwater and, where required, greywater systems, securing a compliance certificate from a licensed plumber under the Building Act 1993, and paying fees (reg 8(1)(c), (e), (g); reg 7(2)). The Regulations empower the Goulburn‑Murray Rural Water Corporation (GMR Water Corporation) to decide licences, inspect installations (subject to consent), set the annual maximum number of licences and revoke licences after a formal notice and submissions process (regs 8-10, 13; reg 9(1)-(3)).

Version No. 001

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

S.R. No. 44/2024

Version as at
10 June 2024

TABLE OF PROVISIONS

Regulation Page

Part 1—Preliminary 1

1 Objectives 1

2 Authorising provision 1

3 Commencement 1

4 Revocations 1

5 Definitions 2

Part 2—Licence requirements 8

6 Licence requirements 8

7 Application for a houseboat licence 8

8 Issue of a houseboat licence 9

9 Inspection of houseboats 11

10 Maximum number of houseboat licences 11

11 Expiry of a houseboat licence 12

12 Terms or conditions of a houseboat licence 12

13 Revocation of a houseboat licence 12

14 Restricted term licence 14

15 No transfer of houseboat licence to another houseboat 15

16 Transfer of houseboat licence to another person 15

Part 3—Control of sanitary waste on Lake 17

17 Deposit or discharge of foreign matter 17

18 Disposal of blackwater in Lake Eildon recreational area 17

Part 4—Miscellaneous 18

19 Alteration to an on‑board blackwater system 18

20 Alteration to a simple greywater treatment system 18

21 Alteration to a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system 18

22 Alteration to a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system 19

23 Change of address 19

Schedule 1—Specifications for on‑board blackwater systems 20

Schedule 2—Greywater treatment specifications and standards 27

Schedule 3—Fees for administration of licences 38

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Endnotes 39

1 General information 39

2 Table of Amendments 41

3 Explanatory details 42

Version No. 001

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

S.R. No. 44/2024

Version as at
10 June 2024

Part 1—Preliminary

1 Objectives

The objectives of these Regulations are—

(a) to provide for the control and management of houseboats within the Lake Eildon recreational area; and

(b) to mitigate risks to human health and the environment from houseboat wastewater within the Lake Eildon recreational area.

2 Authorising provision

These Regulations are made under section 324 of the Water Act 1989.

3 Commencement

These Regulations come into operation on 10 June 2024.

4 Revocations

The following Regulations are revoked—

(a) the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2013[1];

(b) the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Amendment Regulations 2017[2].

5 Definitions

In these Regulations—

AS 4995‑2009 means the Australian Standard AS 4995—2009, Greywater treatment systems for vessels operated on inland waters, as published on 9 September 2009;

AS/NZS 3500.2 means the Australian/New Zealand Standard 3500.2, Plumbing and drainage—Part 2: Sanitary plumbing and drainage, as published from time to time;

blackwater means human excreta or wastewater discharged from toilets;

commercial houseboat means a houseboat that is intended for commercial use;

comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system means a treatment device or unit designed to treat greywater that—

(a) is installed on a houseboat; and

(b) is not a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system;

deck means any horizontal platform covering the whole or part of the pontoons or hull of a houseboat;

GMR Water Corporation means the Goulburn‑Murray Rural Water Corporation;

greywater means—

(a) kitchen wastewater; or

(b) wastewater that has been used for or produced as a result of laundering, washing, bathing or showering activities;

greywater treatment system means—

(a) a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system; or

(b) a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system; or

holding tank means any permanent container or receptacle on a houseboat that is designed and constructed to collect and store blackwater and greywater for disposal at a waste collection facility;

houseboat licence means a licence issued under regulation 8;

kitchen sink means a sink or container on a houseboat used for utensil cleaning;

kitchen wastewater means wastewater that—

(a) contains dissolved or suspended matter, such as fats, oils, food scraps, nutrients, household chemicals, soap and detergent; and

(b) may contain phosphate, nitrate and microbiological pathogens (such as bacteria or viruses); and

Lake means the waters of Lake Eildon;

Lake Eildon recreational area means—

(a) the area of land and water under the management and control of the GMR Water Corporation that was declared to be the Lake Eildon Recreational Area by Order in Council dated 27 July 1966 and published in the Government Gazette on 2 August 1966, as amended—

(i) by Order in Council dated 15 December 1970 and published in the Government Gazette on 16 December 1970; and

(ii) by Order in Council dated 20 February 1973 and published in the Government Gazette on 21 February 1973; and

(iii) by Order in Council dated 18 February 1975 and published in the Government Gazette on 26 February 1975; and

(b) any other land that is determined to be a part of the Lake Eildon Recreational Area under section 122ZA of the Water Act 1989;

length, of a houseboat, means the distance between the most extreme fore and aft points of the houseboat, including all motors and structural appendages (such as bumper bars, duckboards, eaves, handrails, ski platforms and walkways), measured in a direct line that bisects the houseboat medially;

licensed plumber has the same meaning as in section 221B(1) of the Building Act 1993;

mooring means a berth in a marina or other anchorage to which a houseboat can be attached;

multi‑deck houseboat means a houseboat with 2 or more separate and enclosed levels above the deck;

new greywater discharge standard means the standard specified in Part 3 of Schedule 2;

new houseboat means a houseboat for which—

(a) an application for a houseboat licence is made on or after 11 June 2026; and

(b) a houseboat licence has not previously been issued;

old greywater discharge standard means the standard specified in Part 5 of Schedule 2;

on‑board blackwater system means a system—

(a) that is installed on a houseboat; and

(b) in which blackwater is isolated and stored in a holding tank, pending its disposal at a waste collection facility;

owner, of a houseboat, means—

(a) the person in whose name the houseboat is registered under the Marine Safety Act 2010; or

(b) if the houseboat is not registered under the Marine Safety Act 2010, the legal owner of the houseboat;

pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system means a treatment device or unit designed to treat greywater that—

(a) was installed on a houseboat between 12 June 2013 and 17 October 2017; and

(b) complied with Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2013 as in force during the period referred to in paragraph (a);

restricted term licence means a licence issued under regulation 14;

school holiday period means the period between Government school terms as determined under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006;

simple greywater treatment system means a system consisting of—

(a) an inline strainer or filter designed to filter kitchen wastewater particles greater than 3 millimetres in diameter; and

(b) a grease trap that is designed to remove pollutants from kitchen wastewater;

single‑deck houseboat means a houseboat with one enclosed level above the deck;

toilet includes a urinal;

trailable houseboat means a houseboat that may be towed to and from the Lake without the need for a class O vehicle permit under the Road Safety (Vehicles) Regulations 2021[3];

type 1 houseboat means a commercial houseboat (other than a new houseboat) that is—

(a) a single‑deck houseboat with a length greater than 10∙6 metres or a width greater than 4∙5 metres; or

(b) a multi‑deck houseboat;

type 2 houseboat means a new houseboat that is—

(a) a single‑deck houseboat with a length greater than 10∙6 metres or a width greater than 4∙5 metres; or

(b) a multi‑deck houseboat;

type 3 houseboat means a houseboat (other than a commercial houseboat or a new houseboat) that is—

(a) a single‑deck houseboat with a length greater than 10∙6 metres or a width greater than 4∙5 metres; or

(b) a multi‑deck houseboat;

waste collection facility means a facility or unit that is—

(a) designed and constructed to receive the contents of a holding tank or portable toilet; and

(b) controlled and managed by the GMR Water Corporation;

width, of a houseboat, means the distance between the most extreme points of the starboard and port sides of the houseboat, including all structural appendages (such as bumper bars, duckboards, eaves, handrails, ski platforms and walkways), measured in a direct line perpendicular to the line measuring the length of the houseboat.

Part 2—Licence requirements

6 Licence requirements

A person must not leave or operate a houseboat within the Lake Eildon recreational area unless it is licensed under this Part.

Penalty: In the case of an individual,
20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

7 Application for a houseboat licence

(1) The owner of a houseboat may apply to the GMR Water Corporation for a houseboat licence to leave and operate the houseboat within the Lake Eildon recreational area.

(2) An application for a houseboat licence must—

(a) be made in a form and manner approved by the GMR Water Corporation; and

(b) be accompanied by payment of—

(i) for an initial licence application, the appropriate fee specified in Schedule 3; or

(ii) for a licence renewal application, the appropriate fee determined by the GMR Water Corporation; and

(3) If an application for a houseboat licence is made after 31 July in any year, the fee under subregulation (2)(b) must be reduced by one twelfth for each completed month since 1 July of that year.

8 Issue of a houseboat licence

(1) The GMR Water Corporation may issue a houseboat licence, on any terms and conditions the GMR Water Corporation considers appropriate, if it is satisfied that—

(a) the houseboat is not more than 20 metres in length and not more than 8 metres in width; and

(b) the applicant for the licence is the owner of the houseboat; and

(d) all fees that the applicant is liable to pay to the GMR Water Corporation in relation to a houseboat licence have been paid; and

(e) one of the following is installed on the houseboat and is in good working order—

(i) a toilet connected to an on‑board blackwater system that complies with the specifications in Schedule 1;

(ii) if the design of the houseboat precludes a toilet connected to an on‑board blackwater system, a portable toilet; and

(f) in the case that the houseboat is required by subregulation (2) to have a greywater treatment system, the houseboat has that system and the system is in good working order; and

(g) a compliance certificate has been issued by a licensed plumber, in accordance with Part 12A of the Building Act 1993, for all plumbing work in respect of the blackwater and greywater installations required for the houseboat.

(2) For the purposes of subregulation (1)(f)—

(a) a type 1 houseboat, in respect of which an application is made on or after 1 January 2034, is required to have—

(i) a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system that meets the new greywater discharge standard and that complies with the specifications in Part 2 of Schedule 2; or

(ii) a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system that meets the old greywater discharge standard; and

(b) a type 2 houseboat, in respect of which an application is made on or after 11 June 2027, is required to have a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system that meets the new greywater discharge standard and that complies with the specifications in Part 2 of Schedule 2; and

(i) a simple greywater treatment system, the grease trap of which complies with the specifications in Part 1 of Schedule 2; or

(ii) a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system that meets the old greywater discharge standard.

(3) The GMR Water Corporation may refuse to issue a houseboat licence if, by issuing it, the total number of houseboat licences in force would exceed the maximum number determined by the GMR Water Corporation under regulation 10.

9 Inspection of houseboats

(1) For the purposes of regulation 8(1)(e) and (f), an authorised water officer of the GMR Water Corporation may inspect the installations and systems described in those provisions.

(2) An inspection under subregulation (1) must not be undertaken without the consent of the owner and any occupier of the houseboat.

(3) For an inspection under subregulation (1), the owner of the houseboat must pay to the GMR Water Corporation the appropriate fee specified in Schedule 3.

10 Maximum number of houseboat licences

(1) The GMR Water Corporation may determine in accordance with subregulation (2) the maximum number of houseboat licences it will issue for a 12-month period beginning 1 July, having regard to—

(a) the safety of houseboat licence holders and the amenity of the Lake; and

(b) the possibility of an unacceptable risk to public health as a result of an increase in the number of houseboat licences issued; and

(c) the possibility of an unacceptable risk to the environment as a result of an increase in the number of houseboat licences issued.

(2) A determination under subregulation (1) must be made—

(a) on or before 31 May for the following 12‑month period beginning 1 July; and

(b) by notice published in the Government Gazette and in a newspaper circulating generally in the area surrounding the Lake Eildon recreational area.

(3) If the GMR Water Corporation does not determine the maximum number of houseboat licences for a particular 12-month period beginning 1 July, the maximum number for that period is the number most recently determined for a 12-month period under this regulation.

11 Expiry of a houseboat licence

A houseboat licence expires on 30 June next following the day of issue.

12 Terms or conditions of a houseboat licence

The holder of a houseboat licence must comply with any terms or conditions of the licence.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

13 Revocation of a houseboat licence

(1) The GMR Water Corporation may revoke a houseboat licence if it reasonably believes that the holder of the houseboat licence has failed to comply with these Regulations or a term or condition to which the houseboat licence is subject.

(2) If the GMR Water Corporation proposes to revoke a houseboat licence, the GMR Water Corporation must give written notice to the holder of the houseboat licence—

(a) setting out the provision of these Regulations or the term or condition of the houseboat licence that the GMR Water Corporation believes has not been complied with; and

(b) setting out the reasons why the GMR Water Corporation believes that the provision of these Regulations or the term or condition has not been complied with; and

(c) specifying a day (not less than 14 days after giving the notice) before which, and the manner in which, the holder of the houseboat licence must comply with the provision of these Regulations or the term or condition; and

(d) stating that the houseboat licence may be revoked if the holder of the houseboat licence does not comply with the notice; and

(e) stating that the holder of the houseboat licence may make written submissions in response to the proposed revocation.

(3) The holder of a houseboat licence may make written submissions to the GMR Water Corporation within 28 days after receiving a notice under subregulation (2).

(4) In deciding whether or not to revoke a houseboat licence, the GMR Water Corporation must have regard to—

(a) any submission made under subregulation (3); and

(b) whether the notice has been complied with before the day referred to in subregulation (2)(c).

(5) The GMR Water Corporation must notify the holder of a houseboat licence in writing of its decision on whether or not to revoke the houseboat licence.

14 Restricted term licence

(1) The owner of a trailable houseboat may apply to the GMR Water Corporation for a restricted term licence.

(2) An application for a restricted term licence must—

(a) be made in a form and manner approved by the GMR Water Corporation; and

(b) be accompanied by payment of the appropriate fee specified in Schedule 3.

(3) The GMR Water Corporation may issue a restricted term licence if it is satisfied that—

(a) the trailable houseboat is less than 9∙1 metres in length; and

(b) one of the following is installed on the trailable houseboat and is in good working order—

(i) a toilet connected to an on‑board blackwater system that complies with the specifications in Schedule 1;

(ii) if the design of the trailable houseboat precludes a toilet connected to an on‑board blackwater system, a portable toilet; and

(c) all fees that the applicant is liable to pay to the GMR Water Corporation in relation to a restricted term licence have been paid.

(4) The GMR Water Corporation must not issue a restricted term licence unless the licence is for—

(a) a period of no more than 14 days; or

(b) the duration of a school holiday period.

(5) The GMR Water Corporation must not issue a restricted term licence to the same person more than 4 times in any calendar year.

(6) The holder of a restricted term licence must ensure that a copy of the licence is kept on the trailable houseboat in respect of which the licence is issued at all times.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 3 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 6 penalty units.

15 No transfer of houseboat licence to another houseboat

A houseboat licence is not transferable to another houseboat.

16 Transfer of houseboat licence to another person

(1) If the owner of a houseboat, in respect of which a houseboat licence is in force, transfers ownership of the houseboat to another person (the new owner), the new owner may apply to the GMR Water Corporation for the transfer of the licence to the new owner.

(2) An application for the transfer of a houseboat licence must—

(a) be made in a form and manner approved by the GMR Water Corporation; and

(b) be accompanied by payment of the appropriate fee specified in Schedule 3; and

(3) The GMR Water Corporation may transfer a houseboat licence if it is satisfied that the applicant for the transfer of the licence is the new owner of the houseboat.

Part 3—Control of sanitary waste on Lake

17 Deposit or discharge of foreign matter

(1) A person must not deposit or discharge into any on‑board blackwater system, on a houseboat within the Lake Eildon recreational area, any substance that is not blackwater or greywater.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

(2) A person must not deposit or discharge into any greywater treatment system, on a houseboat within the Lake Eildon recreational area, any substance that is not greywater.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

18 Disposal of blackwater in Lake Eildon recreational area

A person must not dispose of, release or discharge blackwater from a houseboat within the Lake Eildon recreational area other than to a waste collection facility.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

Part 4—Miscellaneous

19 Alteration to an on‑board blackwater system

The holder of a houseboat licence for a houseboat that is within the Lake Eildon recreational area must not cause to be carried out any alterations to an on‑board blackwater system on the houseboat that result in the system ceasing to comply with the specifications set out in Schedule 1.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

20 Alteration to a simple greywater treatment system

The holder of a houseboat licence for a houseboat that is within the Lake Eildon recreational area must not cause to be carried out any alterations to a simple greywater treatment system on the houseboat that result in the system ceasing to comply with the specifications set out in Part 1 of Schedule 2.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

21 Alteration to a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system

The holder of a houseboat licence for a houseboat that is within the Lake Eildon recreational area must not cause to be carried out any alterations to a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system on the houseboat that result in

the system ceasing to comply with the specifications set out in Part 2 of Schedule 2.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

22 Alteration to a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system

The holder of a houseboat licence for a houseboat that is within the Lake Eildon recreational area must not cause to be carried out any alterations to a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system on the houseboat that result in the system ceasing to comply with the specifications set out in Part 4 of Schedule 2.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 20 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 40 penalty units.

23 Change of address

The holder of a houseboat licence, in writing, must advise the GMR Water Corporation of a change to the holder's primary residential address within 30 days after that change.

Penalty: In the case of an individual, 10 penalty units;

In the case of a body corporate, 20 penalty units.

Schedule 1—Specifications for on‑board blackwater systems

Regulations 5, 8(1)(e)(i), 14(3)(b)(i) and 19

1 General

1.1 Each toilet on the houseboat must be connected solely to the holding tank of the system.

1.2 The holding tank must be fitted with a standard discharge connection to enable the pipes of a reception facility to connect to the houseboat discharge pipeline.

1.3 The system must be installed to prevent the emissions of odour and vapour within the houseboat.

2 Materials

2.1 Materials used in the system that are in contact with blackwater must be resistant to—

(a) sewage; and

(b) a marine environment; and

(d) cleaning agents that have the potential to enter the system; and

(e) chemical compounds, in solid, liquid or gaseous form of a toxic or explosive nature, likely to be generated in the operation of the system; and

(f) temperatures between -5°C and 60°C.

2.2 Materials used in the system must be fit for purpose and chemically, electrically and galvanically compatible.

3 Design and construction

3.1 The holding tank must be designed to remove at least 90 per cent of its contents through the pump out fitting.

3.2 The system must be designed—

(a) to incorporate a method that indicates when the holding tank is 75 per cent full by volume; and

(b) so that any vacuum toilet or macerator toilet connected to the holding tank prevents further contents from entering the holding tank when it is 90 per cent full by volume.

3.3 Clean out openings for the holding tank must be designed to be easily accessible for inspection.

4 Capacity

4.1 The holding tank and each toilet connected to it must have a combined capacity for storing waste not less than that set out in the following Table—

Table

Houseboat with 1, 2, 3 or 4 berth accommodation	60 litres
Houseboat with 5 or 6 berth accommodation	80 litres
Houseboat with at least 7 berth accommodation	130 litres

5 Seals, pipes, hoses and fittings

5.1 The pump out fitting and the pipes and hoses used within the system must—

(a) be as short and direct as practicable; and

(b) not contain any fittings that allow for the escape of blackwater, other than via the pump out fitting.

5.2 All seals and fittings of the system must be securely fastened in position—

(a) to prevent damage by abrasion, physical impact or vibration; and

(b) to allow access for inspection and replacement.

5.3 The toilet bowl of each toilet connected to the holding tank must have a mechanical or water seal.

5.4 The fittings of the system, including the covers of clean out openings of the holding tank, must be designed, constructed and installed to ensure a watertight and gastight seal.

6 Inlet to tank

6.1 For a drop toilet connected to the holding tank—

(a) the inlet to the tank must have no more than 2 changes of direction, at no greater than 45°; and

(b) the inlet must have a diameter of at least 75 millimetres.

6.2 For a macerator or vacuum toilet connected to the holding tank, the inlet to the tank must be—

(a) the size required by the manufacturer's specifications; or

(b) if no size is required by the manufacturer's specifications, at least 32 millimetres in diameter.

7 Outlet from tank

7.1 The outlet from the holding tank must be a non‑corrodible polyvinyl chloride pipe or a reinforced waste grade non‑collapsible suction pipe that is connected to a fitting installed above the spill level of the toilet bowl of each toilet on the bottom deck.

7.2 If an outlet of the suction pipe type is used, the lower end of the suction pipe must—

(a) terminate not more than 38 millimetres above the bottom of the sump of the holding tank; and

(b) be installed to ensure that the suction pipe is connected to the houseboat at an angle no greater than 30°.

7.3 The wall fitting of the outlet must consist of a 32 millimetre (1∙25 inch) internal diameter standard camlock adaptor compatible with pump out fittings used on the GMR Water Corporation's sanitation service stations.

7.4 A fitting must be provided as a gastight cover over the wall fitting of the outlet.

8 Venting

8.1 A vent pipe must be fitted to the top of the holding tank and extend to the exterior atmosphere of the houseboat.

8.2 A vent pipe must be—

(a) made of non‑corrodible material; and

(b) at least 40 millimetres in diameter; and

(d) located at least 1∙5 metres from any source of ignition; and

(e) designed so that any materials that may enter the vent pipe can fall back into the holding tank; and

(f) covered with a cowl fitting to the outlet end; and

(g) at least 150 millimetres above its point of penetration through any roof covering.

8.3 If a pumping mechanism is required to remove blackwater from the system, the venting of the system must be capable of withstanding the vacuum of the pumping mechanism.

9 Flushing inlet

9.1 Provision must be made for flushing the holding tank with fresh water at times when it is being pumped out.

10 Inspection

10.1 Provision must be made for access to the holding tank to allow inspection of the holding tank and the pipe work and fittings connected to it.

10.2 A watertight and gastight fitting must be installed on the holding tank to enable inspection of the holding tank.

11 Protection

11.1 The holding tank and any parts of the outlet from the tank, the inlet to the tank and the vent pipes located below the deck level of the houseboat must be encased in steel at least 1∙5 millimetres thick or aluminium plates at least 3 millimetres thick to prevent the holding tank and the vent pipes being damaged by obstructions in the water or protruding from the water.

11.2 The steel or aluminium plates must be—

(a) suitably attached to resist movement when contacted by obstructions; and

(b) capable of being removed to enable inspection and maintenance of the system.

12 Installation, operation and maintenance

12.1 The holding tank must be—

(a) installed so as not to share common walls with fuel or potable water tanks; and

(b) securely fastened and located so as not to risk causing damage to separate pipework on the houseboat.

12.2 The system and each toilet connected to the holding tank of the system must be installed—

(a) to minimise the emission of malodorous gases; and

(b) to prevent the emission of poisonous gases (such as hydrogen sulphide) within the houseboat.

12.3 The system must be installed to prevent—

(a) backflow under normal operating conditions; and

(b) the risk of human contact with blackwater.

12.4 Plumbing work for the system must be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993.

13 Tests

13.1 If the system is connected to a pan or cistern toilet, the system must be air pressure tested in accordance with clause 15.3.2 of AS/NZS 3500.2.

13.2 If the system is connected to a vacuum toilet, the system must be vacuum tested in accordance with clauses 16.15.2 and 16.15.3 of AS/NZS 3500.2.

13.3 If the system is connected to a macerator toilet, the system must be air pressure tested to withstand air pressure of 10 kilopascals while the pressure gauge is stationary for 10 minutes.

14 Operating instructions and safety precautions

14.1 For a commercial houseboat, a placard displaying detailed operating instructions, maintenance requirements, relevant diagrams, safety precautions and warnings appropriate for the system must be permanently attached to the compartment of each toilet connected to the system.

14.2 The placard—

(a) must not display lettering less than 3 millimetres high; and

(b) must be legible and capable of withstanding the combined effects of normal wear and tear and the environmental conditions on the houseboat.

15 Identification

15.1 The system must be legibly marked with the following information on a plate attached to the system or in lettering on the system—

(a) the name of the manufacturer;

(b) the name and model number of the system;

(d) the volume of the holding tank.

Schedule 2—Greywater treatment specifications and standards

Regulations 5, 8(2), 20, 21 and 22

Part 1—Specifications for grease traps in simple greywater treatment systems

1 Materials

1.1 Materials used in the grease trap that are in contact with greywater must be resistant to—

(a) greywater; and

(b) disinfectants, deodorants and chemicals that have the potential to enter the grease trap; and

(d) chemical compounds, in solid, liquid or gaseous form of a toxic or explosive nature, likely to be generated in the operation of the grease trap; and

(e) temperatures between -5°C and 60°C.

1.2 Materials used in the grease trap must be fit for purpose and chemically and galvanically compatible.

2 Design

2.1 The grease trap must be designed for use in a small, enclosed environment.

3 Capacity

3.1 The capacity of the grease trap must be—

(a) at least 20 litres; or

(b) the maximum volume that can reasonably be accommodated on the houseboat.

4 Installation and operation

4.1 Plumbing work for the grease trap must be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993.

4.2 Provision must be made for easy access to the grease trap and its key components for the purposes of cleaning and inspection and to monitor its performance.

4.3 The grease trap must be manufactured and installed—

(a) to minimise the emission of malodorous gases; and

(b) to prevent the emission of poisonous gases (such as hydrogen sulphide) within the houseboat.

4.4 The grease trap must be installed to prevent backflow under normal operating conditions.

Part 2—Specifications for comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment systems

5 Materials

5.1 Materials used in the system that are in contact with greywater must be resistant to—

(a) greywater; and

(b) disinfectants, deodorants and chemicals that have the potential to enter the system; and

(d) chemical compounds, in solid, liquid or gaseous form of a toxic or explosive nature, likely to be generated in the operation of the system; and

(e) temperatures between -5°C and 60°C; and

(f) damage from exposure to ultraviolet light.

5.2 Materials used in the system must be fit for purpose and chemically, electrically and galvanically compatible.

6 Design and construction

6.1 If the system requires pump out, the system must be designed to remove at least 90 per cent of its contents through the pump out fitting.

6.2 Clean out openings and fittings of the system must be designed to allow for easy access and inspection.

6.3 The system must be designed to produce very minor vibrations indistinguishable from other on‑board systems or appliances.

6.4 The system must be designed so that any noise produced by the system is indiscernible from other on‑board systems or appliances.

6.5 The system must be designed to minimise unpleasant odours.

6.6 The system must be designed to minimise the likelihood of untreated greywater being discharged from the system.

6.7 The system must be designed to incorporate an overflow function to prevent backflow impacts resulting from blockages, system malfunctions or capacity constraints.

7 Capacity

7.1 The greywater treatment capacity of the system must be—

(a) at least 20 litres per person per day; and

(b) adequate to treat the daily and peak volumes of greywater expected to be produced on the houseboat.

8 Seals, pipes, hoses and fittings

8.1 Pump out fittings and pipes and hoses between drains and the system must—

(a) be constructed from materials that are resistant to the things specified in clause 5.1(a) to (f); and

(b) be securely fastened in position to prevent damage by abrasion, physical impact or vibration and to allow access for inspection and replacement; and

(d) not contain any fittings, other than the overflow outlet, that allow for the escape of untreated greywater.

8.2 All seals and fittings of the system, including the covers of clean out openings of the system, must be designed and constructed to ensure a watertight and gastight seal.

8.3 If the system has a holding tank, the system must have an accessible, sealable, gastight and watertight opening at least 32 millimetres in diameter for flushing, cleaning and maintenance.

9 Venting

9.1 If the system has a holding tank, a vent pipe must be fitted to the top of the system.

9.2 The vent pipe must extend above the roof height of the houseboat and must be—

(a) made of non‑corrodible material; and

(b) covered with a cowl fitting onto the outlet end of the vent pipe; and

(d) designed so as not to provide an odour nuisance; and

(e) capable of withstanding the vacuum of any pumping system that is used; and

(f) at least 150 millimetres above its point of penetration through any roof covering.

9.3 The inside diameter of the fittings to which the vent pipe is connected must not be less than 75 per cent of the inside diameter of the pipe.

10 Pump out and flushing

10.1 If the system has a holding tank that requires pump out and flushing—

(a) provision must be made for flushing the tank with fresh water at times when it is being pumped out; and

(b) the flush and pump out fittings must have a gastight cover for when they are not in use; and

(c) the houseboat must be fitted with a 32 millimetre (1∙25 inch) internal diameter standard camlock adaptor compatible with pump out fittings to discharge via the GMR Water Corporation's sanitation service stations.

11 Protection

11.1 If the system has a holding tank, the tank must be encased in material strong enough to prevent the tank being damaged by obstructions in the water or protruding from the water.

11.2 Parts of the system that are vulnerable to damage from accidental impacts from houseboat users or obstructions in the water or protruding from the water must be encased in steel at least 1∙5 millimetres thick or an aluminium sheet at least 3 millimetres thick.

11.3 The system must be securely fastened and located so as not to risk causing damage to separate pipework on the houseboat.

11.4 If the system has a holding tank, the tank must be strengthened or baffled to distribute the force of the influent.

12 Electrical systems

12.1 The electrical supply for the system must be capable of maintaining an output that meets the system manufacturer's requirements.

13 Operating instructions

13.1 For a commercial houseboat, a placard displaying information relating to the system, as specified in clause 13.3, must be permanently attached to the houseboat in a waterproof, accessible location.

13.2 The placard—

(a) must not display lettering less than 3 millimetres high; and

(b) must be legible and capable of withstanding the combined effects of normal wear and tear and the environmental conditions on the houseboat.

13.3 The placard must include the following information relating to the system—

(a) detailed operating and safety instructions;

(b) maintenance requirements;

(d) the greywater treatment capacity of the system;

(e) chemicals acceptable to use for disinfection and relevant dosage quantities;

(f) any alarm systems;

(g) troubleshooting information;

(h) emergency procedures.

14 Identification

14.1 If a pump out fitting is required by the system, that requirement must be shown by marking on the fitting or in its vicinity.

14.2 The system must be legibly marked with the following information on a plate attached to the system or in lettering on the system—

(a) the name of the manufacturer;

(b) the name and the model number or serial number of the system;

(d) the gross weight of the system;

(e) the date of manufacture;

(f) the words "WARNING: NOT FOR DRINKING".

15 Installation and operation

15.1 Plumbing work for the system must be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993.

15.2 Electrical work for the system must be carried out by an electrical worker licensed under Division 2 of Part 3 of the Electricity Safety Act 1998.

15.3 The system, in conjunction with the on‑board blackwater system, must not unreasonably affect the buoyancy of the houseboat.

15.4 If the system has a holding tank, the tank must not share common walls with potable water or fuel tanks.

15.5 The system must be installed—

(a) to minimise the emission of malodorous gases; and

(b) to prevent the emission of poisonous gases (such as hydrogen sulphide) within the houseboat.

15.6 The system must be installed to prevent—

(a) backflow, including from lake waters, under normal operating conditions; and

(b) the risk of human contact with untreated greywater.

16 Testing

16.1 The system must have been tested by the manufacturer for its effectiveness under simulated operating conditions that mimic the potential greywater loads and pollutant concentrations on a houseboat.

Part 3—New greywater discharge standard

17 New greywater discharge standard

17.1 The new greywater discharge standard for a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system is set out in clause 17.2.

17.2 The system must be capable of operating so that for any treated greywater discharged from the system—

(a) the chemical oxygen demand is less than 15 mg/L; and

(b) the concentration of suspended solids is less than 10 mg/L; and

(d) the turbidity is less than 5 nephelometric turbidity units; and

(e) the total phosphorus content is less than 1 mg/L; and

(f) the total nitrogen content is less than 10 mg/L; and

(g) the concentration of E. coli is less than 10 cells per 100 mL.

Part 4—Specifications for pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment systems

18 System design, manufacture and performance

18.1 The design, manufacture and performance of the system must be in accordance with the requirements of AS 4995‑2009.

19 Materials

19.1 Materials used in the plumbing of the system must comply with the requirements of AS 4995‑2009.

19.2 Plumbing work for the system must be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993.

19.3 Electrical work for the system must be carried out by an electrical worker licensed under Division 2 of Part 3 of the Electricity Safety Act 1998.

20 Pipework and hoses

20.1 The interior of the pipework or hose leading to the system and between the system and the flush and pump out fittings must—

(a) be as smooth as practicable, to allow the free flow of greywater; and

(b) have a nominal diameter of not less than 40 millimetres.

20.2 All pipework leading to and from the system must—

(a) be as short as practicable; and

(b) be rigid, sealed and securely fixed to the houseboat; and

(c) not contain any fittings that allow for the escape of untreated greywater from the system, other than by pump out from the pump out pipe.

20.3 All inflow removable pipe joints must be tagged or sealed to indicate if tampering has occurred.

21 Electrical systems

21.1 Electrical systems for the pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system must—

(a) meet the requirements of AS 4995‑2009 regarding—

(i) electrical installations; and

(ii) the construction, testing and marking of electrical equipment and ex‑components intended for use in explosive atmospheres; and

(b) be powered by the houseboat.

21.2 The electrical supply for the pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system must—

(a) be capable of maintaining a continuous output that meets the system manufacturer's requirements; and

(b) provide a net current output of at least twice the system's demand.

Part 5—Old greywater discharge standard

22 Old greywater discharge standard

22.1 The old greywater discharge standard for a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system is set out in clause 22.2.

22.2 The system must be capable of operating so that for any treated greywater discharged by the system—

(a) the concentration of suspended solids is less than 50 mg/L; and

(b) the total grease content is less than 25 mg/L; and

(d) the total phosphorus content is less than 1 mg/L; and

(e) the concentration of enterococci is less than 40 cells per 100 mL; and

(f) the concentration of E. coli is less than 100 cells per 100 mL; and

(g) the biochemical oxygen demand is reduced by digestion, oxidation or another treatment method.

Schedule 3—Fees for administration of licences

Regulations 7(2)(b)(i), 9(3),
14(2)(b) and 16(2)(b)

Fees for applications, inspections and transfers

Fee for initial houseboat licence application	19·83 fee units
Fee for inspection of single or multi‑deck houseboat in Eildon	32·15 fee units
Fee for inspection of single or multi‑deck houseboat not in Eildon	45·31 fee units
Fee for transfer of houseboat licence to another person	19·83 fee units
Fee for restricted term licence application	9·71 fee units

═════════════

Endnotes

1 General information

See www.legislation.vic.gov.au for Victorian Bills, Acts and current Versions of legislation and up-to-date legislative information.

The Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024, S.R. No. 44/2024 were made on 4 June 2024 by the Lieutenant-Governor as the Governor's deputy, with the advice of the Executive Council, under section 324 of the Water Act 1989, No. 80/1989 and came into operation on 10 June 2024: regulation 3.

The Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024 will sunset 10 years after the day of making on 4 June 2034 (see section 5 of the Subordinate Legislation Act 1994).

INTERPRETATION OF LEGISLATION ACT 1984 (ILA)

Style changes

Section 54A of the ILA authorises the making of the style changes set out in Schedule 1 to that Act.

References to ILA s. 39B

Sidenotes which cite ILA s. 39B refer to section 39B of the ILA which provides that where an undivided regulation, rule or clause of a Schedule is amended by the insertion of one or more subregulations, subrules or subclauses the original regulation, rule or clause becomes subregulation, subrule or subclause (1) and is amended by the insertion of the expression "(1)" at the beginning of the original regulation, rule or clause.

Interpretation

As from 1 January 2001, amendments to section 36 of the ILA have the following effects:

• Headings

All headings included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after
1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any heading inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.
This includes headings to Parts, Divisions or Subdivisions in a Schedule; Orders; Parts into which an Order is divided; clauses; regulations; rules; items; tables; columns; examples; diagrams; notes or forms.
See section 36(1A)(2A)(2B).

• Examples, diagrams or notes

All examples, diagrams or notes included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after 1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any examples, diagrams or notes inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, form part of that Statutory Rule. See section 36(3A).

• Punctuation

All punctuation included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after
1 January 2001 forms part of that Statutory Rule. Any punctuation inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.
See section 36(3B).

• Provision numbers

All provision numbers included in a Statutory Rule form part of that Statutory Rule, whether inserted in the Statutory Rule before, on or after
1 January 2001. Provision numbers include regulation numbers, rule numbers, subregulation numbers, subrule numbers, paragraphs and subparagraphs. See section 36(3C).

• Location of "legislative items"

A "legislative item" is a penalty, an example or a note. As from 13 October 2004, a legislative item relating to a provision of a Statutory Rule is taken to be at the foot of that provision even if it is preceded or followed by another legislative item that relates to that provision. For example, if a penalty at the foot of a provision is followed by a note, both of these legislative items will be regarded as being at the foot of that provision. See section 36B.

• Other material

Any explanatory memorandum, table of provisions, endnotes, index and other material printed after the Endnotes does not form part of a Statutory Rule. See section 36(3)(3D)(3E).

2 Table of Amendments

There are no amendments made to the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024 by statutory rules, subordinate instruments and Acts.

3 Explanatory details

Reg. 4(a): S.R. No. 60/2013 as amended by S.R. No. 102/2017 and extended in operation by S.R. No. 38/2023. ↑
Reg. 4(b): S.R. No. 102/2017. ↑
Reg. 5 def. of trailable houseboat: S.R. No. 116/2021 as amended by S.R. Nos 47/2022, 51/2022, 129/2022, 130/2022, 53/2023, 54/2023 and 67/2023.

——

Fee Units

These Regulations provide for fees by reference to fee units within the meaning of the Monetary Units Act 2004.

The amount of the fee is to be calculated, in accordance with section 7 of that Act, by multiplying the number of fee units applicable by the value of a fee unit.

The value of a fee unit for the financial year commencing 1 July 2023 is $15.90 and for the financial year commencing 1 July 2024 is $16.33. The amount of the calculated fee may be rounded to the nearest 10 cents.

The value of a fee unit for future financial years is to be fixed by the Treasurer under section 5 of the Monetary Units Act 2004. The value of a fee unit for a financial year must be published in the Government Gazette and a Victorian newspaper before 1 June in the preceding financial year.

Penalty Units

These Regulations provide for penalties by reference to penalty units within the meaning of section 110 of the Sentencing Act 1991. The amount of the penalty is to be calculated, in accordance with section 7 of the Monetary Units Act 2004, by multiplying the number of penalty units applicable by the value of a penalty unit.

The value of a penalty unit for the financial year commencing 1 July 2023 is $192.31 and for the financial year commencing 1 July 2024 is $197.59. The amount of the calculated penalty may be rounded to the nearest dollar.

The value of a penalty unit for future financial years is to be fixed by the Treasurer under section 5 of the Monetary Units Act 2004. The value of a penalty unit for a financial year must be published in the Government Gazette and a Victorian newspaper before 1 June in the preceding financial year.

——

Table of Applied, Adopted or Incorporated Matter

The following table of applied, adopted or incorporated matter was included in S.R. No. 44/2024 in accordance with the requirements of regulation 5 of the Subordinate Legislation Regulations 2014.

| **Statutory rule provision** | **Title of applied, adopted or incorporated document** | **Matter in applied, adopted or incorporated document** |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Regulation 5, definition of    ***AS 4995-2009***<br>Clauses 18.1, 19.1 and 21.1(a) of Part 4 of Schedule 2 | Australian Standard    AS 4995—2009, Greywater treatment systems for vessels operated on inland waters, as published by Standards Australia on 9 September 2009 | The whole |
| Regulation 5, definition of    ***AS/NZS 3500.2***<br>Clauses 13.1 and 13.2 of Schedule 1 | Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3500.2, Plumbing and drainage—Part 2: Sanitary plumbing and drainage, as published jointly by Standards Australia and Standards New Zealand on 28 May 2021 and reissued incorporating Amendment No. 1 (October 2021) | The whole |

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1 Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

Version No. 001

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

S.R. No. 44/2024

Version as at
10 June 2024

TABLE OF PROVISIONS

Regulation Page

Part 1—Preliminary 1

1 Objectives 1

2 Authorising provision 1

3 Commencement 1

4 Revocations 1

5 Definitions 2

Part 2—Licence requirements 8

6 Licence requirements 8

7 Application for a houseboat licence 8

8 Issue of a houseboat licence 9

9 Inspection of houseboats 11

10 Maximum number of houseboat licences 11

11 Expiry of a houseboat licence 12

12 Terms or conditions of a houseboat licence 12

13 Revocation of a houseboat licence 12

14 Restricted term licence 14

15 No transfer of houseboat licence to another houseboat 15

16 Transfer of houseboat licence to another person 15

Part 3—Control of sanitary waste on Lake 17

17 Deposit or discharge of foreign matter 17

18 Disposal of blackwater in Lake Eildon recreational area 17

Part 4—Miscellaneous 18

19 Alteration to an on‑board blackwater system 18

20 Alteration to a simple greywater treatment system 18

21 Alteration to a comprehensive on‑board greywater treatment system 18

22 Alteration to a pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system 19

23 Change of address 19

Schedule 1—Specifications for on‑board blackwater systems 20

Schedule 2—Greywater treatment specifications and standards 27

Schedule 3—Fees for administration of licences 38

═════════════

Endnotes 39

1 General information 39

2 Table of Amendments 41

3 Explanatory details 42

Version No. 001

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

S.R. No. 44/2024

Version as at 10 June 2024

The instrument is built around a small set of recurring legal and technical concepts that determine eligibility, ongoing obligations and enforcement.

Houseboat licence: A statutory licence issued by the GMR Water Corporation permitting a houseboat to be left or operated within the Lake Eildon recreational area (reg 6; reg 8). Licences expire each year on 30 June (reg 11). The GMR may issue licences on any terms it considers appropriate (reg 8(1)), may refuse to issue where a maximum has been reached (reg 8(3), reg 10), and may revoke licences for non‑compliance after a prescribed notice and submission process (reg 13).
Owner: Defined by reference to registration under the Marine Safety Act 2010, or otherwise the legal owner (reg 5). Only the owner may apply for or transfer a licence (reg 7, reg 16).
Blackwater and on‑board blackwater system: Blackwater means toilet discharge; an on‑board blackwater system is a holding tank arrangement isolating blackwater for pump‑out at a waste collection facility. Schedule 1 prescribes detailed materials, construction, venting, fittings, capacity and operational rules for such systems (reg 5 definition; Schedule 1).
Greywater and greywater treatment systems: Greywater is kitchen, laundry and bathing wastewater. Greywater treatment systems are split into three categories: comprehensive systems, simple systems (grease trap + inline strainer), and pre‑existing systems (installed between 12 June 2013 and 17 October 2017 and compliant with prior requirements) (reg 5; Schedule 2). The Regulations set distinct technical specifications for each category (Schedule 2 Parts 1-5) and numerical discharge standards for comprehensive systems (new standard, Schedule 2 Part 3 clause 17.2) and for pre‑existing systems (old standard, Part 5 clause 22.2).
Types and transition timing: The regime classifies houseboats as type 1, 2 or 3 according to commercial status, whether they are new houseboats, and physical size (single or multi‑deck, and thresholds of 10.6 m length or 4.5 m width). Those classifications trigger different compliance dates for greywater controls (reg 8(2)).
Waste collection facility and GMR control: The only lawful disposal of blackwater within the Lake Eildon recreational area is to a waste collection facility controlled and managed by GMR (reg 5 definition of waste collection facility; reg 18). The on‑board systems must be compatible with GMR pump‑out fittings (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(c)).
Administrative and technical cross‑references to other statutes and standards: Plumbing work must have a compliance certificate under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993 (reg 8(1)(g) and multiple Schedule clauses). Electrical work must be done by an electrical worker licensed under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 where specified (Schedule 2 cl 15.2 and elsewhere). AS/NZS and AS standards are incorporated by reference for specific classes of pre‑existing systems (reg 5; Schedule 2 Part 4 cl 18.1).

These core concepts structure who decides what, who must act, what technical thresholds apply and when. The mechanics link GMR’s administrative discretions (issuance, maximum number, revocation) to mandatory technical and administrative preconditions at the point of licensing (proof of owned vessel, permanent mooring, compliance certificates, and suitable on‑board systems).

The Regulations primarily create duties and costs for houseboat owners and for persons who will operate or manage commercial houseboat enterprises within the Lake Eildon recreational area. They also impose obligations that implicate licensed trades and GMR as regulator and service provider.

Owners of houseboats: The owner is the primary regulated person. Owners must apply for a houseboat licence before leaving or operating a houseboat within the Lake (reg 6-8). Proof of ownership is required with the application (reg 7(2)(c)). Where ownership transfers, the new owner must apply to transfer the licence to themselves under reg 16, with evidence of ownership and a transfer fee (reg 16(2)). Owners of trailable houseboats have a separate restricted term licence pathway (reg 14).
Commercial houseboat operators: Commercial houseboats have specific obligations in Schedule 1 and Schedule 2 regarding placards and operating information (Schedule 1 cl 14.1-14.2; Schedule 2 cl 13.1-13.3). Type 1 commercial houseboats (and new type 2 commercial houseboats as defined) face the stricter requirement to fit a comprehensive greywater treatment system meeting the new discharge standard by the prescribed dates (reg 8(2)(a) and (b), Schedule 2 Part 3).
GMR Water Corporation: GMR is both the decision‑maker and the provider of waste collection facilities. It issues licences (reg 8), inspects installations through authorised water officers (reg 9), determines and publicises the maximum number of licences annually (reg 10), operates the waste collection facilities to which blackwater must be discharged (reg 5 definition of waste collection facility; reg 18), and administers fees (Schedule 3). GMR also holds the power to revoke licences following the procedural steps in reg 13.
Licensed plumbers and electricians: Plumbing work for blackwater systems, simple greywater systems and comprehensive systems must be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993 (multiple provisions: reg 8(1)(g); Schedule 1 cl 12.4; Schedule 2 cl 15.1 and Part 4 cl 19.2). Electrical work for comprehensive and pre‑existing greywater treatment systems must be carried out by an electrical worker licensed under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 where specified (Schedule 2 cl 15.2, cl 21.3).
Manufacturers and suppliers of greywater systems: Comprehensive systems must be tested by the manufacturer under simulated operating conditions (Schedule 2 cl 16.1) and must meet materials, venting, capacity and performance requirements (Schedule 2 cl 5-16). Pre‑existing systems rely on compliance with AS 4995‑2009 (Schedule 2 Part 4).
Marinas, mooring providers and pump‑out service operators: Owners must obtain a permanent mooring as a precondition for issue (reg 8(1)(c)), and on‑board systems must be compatible with GMR pump‑out fittings (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(c)). GMR manages the waste collection facilities, so service capacity and scheduling are effectively under GMR control.
Occupiers and users: Inspections cannot be undertaken without the consent of both the owner and any occupier of the houseboat (reg 9(2)). Occupiers, whether short‑term guests or renters, are therefore implicated insofar as inspections require their consent.

Secondary effects are likely for local businesses that supply installation, maintenance and pump‑out services, and for prospective purchasers who must take licence non‑transferability to another vessel into account (reg 15). The Regulations also affect GMR’s resource requirements and administrative workload because GMR is the gatekeeper for licences, inspections and the annual cap on licence numbers (regs 7-10).

The Regulations set out precise duties to be performed by owners and procedural rights for licence holders. Below are the principal obligations and the corresponding rights or administrative checks.

Duties

Licence requirement: No person may leave or operate a houseboat within the Lake unless licensed under Part 2 (reg 6). This is an absolute precondition to operate on the Lake.
Application requirements: An application must be in a form approved by GMR and accompanied by evidence of ownership and payment of the prescribed fee (reg 7(2)(a)-(c)). Fees are set in Schedule 3 and calculated by reference to fee units under the Monetary Units Act 2004 (endnotes; Schedule 3).
Pre‑issue technical prerequisites: GMR may issue a licence only if it is satisfied that the vessel does not exceed 20 m by 8 m, the applicant is the owner, a permanent mooring has been obtained, fees are paid, appropriate toilet/blackwater arrangements are installed and in good working order, any required greywater treatment system is installed and in good working order (per reg 8(1)(a)-(f)), and that a compliance certificate from a licensed plumber has been issued for all plumbing work in respect of the required installations (reg 8(1)(g)).
Compatibility and materials: On‑board blackwater and greywater systems must meet specific material, construction, venting, fittings and capacity requirements (Schedule 1; Schedule 2). For example, blackwater holding tanks must be designed to permit removal of at least 90 per cent of contents through pump out (Schedule 1 cl 3.1), and comprehensive greywater systems must meet the numerical new discharge standard where applicable (Schedule 2 Part 3 clause 17.2).
Prohibition on discharges: Blackwater may only be disposed of to a waste collection facility; discharge to the Lake is an offence (reg 18). Depositing non‑greywater matter into greywater systems or non‑blackwater matter into blackwater systems is an offence (reg 17(1)-(2)).
Alteration prohibitions: Licence holders must not cause alterations to blackwater or greywater systems that cause the system to cease to comply with the relevant specifications (regs 19-22).
Notification obligations: Licence holders must advise GMR in writing of any change to their primary residential address within 30 days (reg 23).
Restricted term licence specifics: Owners of trailable houseboats may apply for limited term licences subject to vessel size, toilet requirements and payment of the fee; such licences are limited to no more than 14 days or the duration of a school holiday and to a maximum of four such licences to the same person in a year (reg 14(1)-(5)).

Rights and procedural protections

Discretion and publication: GMR has discretion to determine licence terms and the annual maximum number of licences, but it must publish any maximum by notice in the Government Gazette and in a local newspaper by 31 May for the following 12‑month period (reg 10(1)-(2)).
Inspection consent and fee: Inspections by authorised water officers are authorised for the purpose of verifying installations (reg 9(1)), but an inspection must not be undertaken without the consent of the owner and any occupier (reg 9(2)). The owner must pay the applicable inspection fee (reg 9(3) and Schedule 3).
Revocation procedural fairness: Before revoking a licence for non‑compliance, GMR must give written notice specifying the provision or condition allegedly contravened, reasons, a compliance timeline of at least 14 days, and a statement that the licence may be revoked if not complied with, and that the licence holder may make written submissions (reg 13(2)(a)-(e)). The licence holder may make submissions within 28 days (reg 13(3)), and GMR must consider those submissions and whether the notice has been complied with before deciding (reg 13(4)), and must notify the holder of its decision in writing (reg 13(5)).
Transfer rights (limited): While a houseboat licence is not transferable to another houseboat (reg 15), a licence may be transferred to a new owner when ownership of the licensed boat is transferred, on application and payment of the transfer fee and the provision of ownership evidence (reg 16).
Renewal and pro‑rata fee: If an application is made after 31 July in any year the initial or renewal fee is reduced pro rata (reg 7(3)).

These duties create a compliance ecosystem: owners must secure a mooring, fit compliant plumbing and electrical installations through licensed trades, keep the systems maintained and sealed, and use GMR pump‑out facilities. Rights focus on process: notice and submissions before revocation, the ability to transfer a licence with a change of ownership, consent requirements for inspections and the formal publication of licence caps.

The Regulations rely on a mix of monetary penalties (expressed in penalty units), licence revocation, and administrative gating (inspections and compliance certificates). Enforcement is primarily structured around GMR’s administrative tools and the threat of prosecution.

Monetary penalties and their scale

Operating without a licence: The offence in reg 6 carries a maximum penalty of 20 penalty units for an individual and 40 penalty units for a body corporate (reg 6). The endnotes specify the value of a penalty unit for the financial year commencing 1 July 2024 as $197.59; therefore the monetary maximums for that year would compute to approximately $3,952 for an individual (20 × $197.59) and $7,904 for a body corporate (40 × $197.59), subject to rounding rules in the Monetary Units Act 2004 as noted in the endnotes.
Discharge/deposit offences: Depositing non‑blackwater matter into blackwater systems, depositing non‑greywater matter into greywater treatment systems (reg 17(1)-(2)), and discharging blackwater into the Lake instead of using the waste collection facility (reg 18) each carry penalties of 20 penalty units for an individual and 40 penalty units for a body corporate.
Non‑compliance with licence terms: Failing to comply with licence terms or conditions (reg 12) attracts the same penalty scale (20/40 penalty units).
Alteration offences: Causing alterations to on‑board blackwater systems or to greywater treatment systems that render them non‑compliant with the applicable specifications (regs 19-22) carries penalties of 20 or 40 penalty units depending on whether the offender is an individual or a corporation.
Lesser administrative penalty: A breach of the trailable houseboat restricted licence condition to keep a copy of the restricted licence on board carries a lower penalty: 3 penalty units for an individual and 6 penalty units for a body corporate (reg 14(6)).

Enforcement mechanisms and procedural constraints

Inspections: Authorised water officers may inspect installations in order to verify the presence and condition of the blackwater and greywater systems required under reg 8(1)(e) and (f) (reg 9(1)). Critically, reg 9(2) requires the owner’s and any occupier’s consent before an inspection may be carried out. The owner must pay the applicable inspection fee set out in Schedule 3 (reg 9(3)).
Revocation process: GMR may revoke a licence where it reasonably believes the holder has failed to comply with the Regulations or licence terms (reg 13(1)). The text prescribes procedural steps including written notice of the alleged non‑compliance, a minimum remediation period not less than 14 days, a right to make written submissions within 28 days, consideration of submissions by GMR and written notification of the decision (reg 13(2)-(5)). The presence of these steps adds procedural protection and may limit immediate administrative removal absent opportunity to remedy.
Administrative gatekeeping: The issue of a licence is itself a gate that requires proof (per reg 7), technical compliance certified by a licensed plumber under the Building Act 1993 (reg 8(1)(g)), and, where required, installation of a greywater treatment system meeting the specified standard (reg 8(2)). Thus compliance is enforced at the point of grant through documentation and inspections.
GMR’s role: GMR both determines the maximum number of licences annually (reg 10) and publishes that decision. It also operates the waste collection facilities which are the only lawful destination for blackwater disposal in the Lake area (reg 18). This positions GMR as the central regulator and service provider, responsible for inspection, licensing and pump‑out infrastructure.
Criminal or civil enforcement path: The Regulations specify offences and penalties but do not expand on enforcement proceedings in this instrument; enforcement proceeds through the usual prosecution mechanisms for statutory offences and the administrative revocation pathway in reg 13. The endnotes explain penalty and fee unit calculation mechanisms (endnotes and Schedule 3).

Practical enforcement considerations

Penalty unit values change annually and are fixed by the Treasurer under the Monetary Units Act 2004; enforcement monetary amounts will therefore vary year to year (endnotes).
The need for owner/occupier consent to inspection (reg 9(2)) may constrain GMR’s ability to inspect in situ. GMR can require compliance certificates and may require inspection fees; but the consent requirement is explicit and must be respected.
Revocation is subject to the notice and submission process, so GMR’s enforcement trajectory typically follows notice, opportunity to remedy, then revocation if non‑compliance persists (reg 13).
The substantial penalties for operating without a licence and for unauthorised discharge , 20-40 penalty units , signal strong deterrence, but actual enforcement depends on detection, inspections, and GMR’s administrative capacity to exercise its powers and provide pump‑out services.

The Regulations are heavily cross‑referenced to other statutes and to Australian Standards, which creates a layered compliance environment where obligations under multiple instruments must be met.

Statutory cross‑references

Water Act 1989: The Regulations are made under s 324 of the Water Act 1989 (reg 2), which supplies the delegate power enabling GMR to regulate within the Lake Eildon recreational area.
Building Act 1993: Plumbing work for the required blackwater and greywater installations must be certified in accordance with Part 12A of the Building Act 1993 (reg 8(1)(g); Schedule 1 cl 12.4; Schedule 2 cl 15.1 and Part 4 cl 19.2). The text therefore imports the licensing and compliance framework for plumbers from the Building Act.
Electricity Safety Act 1998: Electrical work for comprehensive greywater systems and for pre‑existing systems must be carried out by electrical workers licensed under Division 2 of Part 3 of the Electricity Safety Act 1998 (Schedule 2 cl 15.2 and Part 4 cl 19.3, cl 21.2).
Marine Safety Act 2010: The definition of owner references registration under the Marine Safety Act 2010; ownership for licensing purposes follows marine registration where applicable (reg 5).
Education and Training Reform Act 2006: The definition of school holiday period (affecting the duration of restricted term licences under reg 14(4)(b)) is taken from how school terms are determined under the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 (reg 5).
Monetary Units Act 2004 and Sentencing Act 1991: The Regulations specify fees by fee units and penalties by penalty units; the endnotes explain the calculation and annual adjustment mechanisms under the Monetary Units Act and the Sentencing Act respectively.
Subordinate Legislation Act 1994: The endnotes state that the Regulations will sunset 10 years after making in accordance with the Subordinate Legislation Act 1994.

Standards and technical documents

AS 4995‑2009: Pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment systems must comply with AS 4995‑2009 (Schedule 2 Part 4 cl 18.1 and reg 5 definition). The Explanatory details in the endnotes list the applied matter.
AS/NZS 3500.2: Schedule 1 air pressure and vacuum testing provisions call for compliance with AS/NZS 3500.2 (Schedule 1 cl 13.1-13.2 and reg 5 definition of AS/NZS 3500.2).

Operational dependencies and regulatory layering

GMR’s pump‑out service: Blackwater must be disposed of to a waste collection facility controlled by GMR (reg 18; definition of waste collection facility). On‑board systems must include camlock adaptors compatible with GMR sanitation service stations (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(c)). The regime therefore ties technical fittings to the GMR service standard.
Building and electrical compliance certificates: Because plumbing and electrical work must be carried out and certified under the Building Act and the Electricity Safety Act respectively, owners must satisfy requirements under those statutes before obtaining a houseboat licence. This makes licensing contingent on compliance with unrelated licensing regimes.
Local planning and mooring: The requirement to obtain a permanent mooring (reg 8(1)(c)) may engage other bodies’ rules and charging (marina operators, local government berth licensing), although the Regulations do not define ‘permanent mooring’ further.
Marine registration and transfer processes: The definition of owner links licence eligibility and transfer obligations to the marine registration regime in the Marine Safety Act 2010. Transfers of licences between persons are conditional on proof of transfer of ownership and payment of the transfer fee (reg 16).
Penalty and fee calculation statutes: The Monetary Units Act 2004 and the Sentencing Act 1991 determine the dollar equivalents of the fee and penalty units used throughout the Regulations (endnotes).

These interactions mean compliance requires multi‑statutory navigation: owners must arrange licensed plumbers/electricians, satisfy Building Act certification, engage GMR waste management services, and ensure fittings are compatible with GMR pump‑out infrastructure, while also watching annual fee and penalty unit adjustments set under separate statutes.

The Regulations themselves are new and explicitly revoke prior houseboat instruments. The document embeds an internal amendment and revocation record and an endnote audit trail.

Revocations: Regulation 4 revokes the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2013 and the Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Amendment Regulations 2017 (reg 4(a)-(b)). The Explanatory details in the endnotes identify the 2013 rule as S.R. No. 60/2013 and the 2017 amendment as S.R. No. 102/2017 and notes an extension S.R. No. 38/2023 (Endnotes, Explanatory details).
No later amendments at present: The Table of Amendments in the endnotes states there are no amendments to S.R. No. 44/2024 by subsequent statutory rules, subordinate instruments or Acts (endnotes, Table of Amendments). Therefore the version presented is the original as made on 4 June 2024 and in force from 10 June 2024 (reg 3; endnotes).
Sunset provision: The Regulations will sunset 10 years after making on 4 June 2034 under the Subordinate Legislation Act 1994 (endnotes, General information). This creates a statutory expiry that requires either re‑enactment or replacement if the regime is to continue past that date.
Incorporated standards: The Regulations explicitly apply AS 4995‑2009 and AS/NZS 3500.2 where relevant (reg 5; Schedule 2 Part 4 cl 18.1; Schedule 1 cl 13.1-13.2). Those incorporated standards may be updated outside the Regulations and any change in those external standards could create practical issues for compliance unless the Regulations are themselves amended or the reference is to the version “as published on” a specified date (the Regulations reference the dates of publication for those standards in reg 5).
Fee and penalty unit adjustments: While not an amendment to the Regulations themselves, the endnotes explain that fee units and penalty units are subject to annual adjustment under the Monetary Units Act 2004 and the Sentencing Act 1991 respectively. These adjustments change the dollar amount payable for fees and fines without amending the statutory rule text.
Transitional and historical references: Definitions and transitional treatment for ‘pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment systems’ track earlier regulatory regimes (the definition references compliance with Part 2 of Schedule 1 to the 2013 Regulations as in force at the time), evidencing continuity for systems installed in the 2013-2017 window (reg 5 definition of pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system).

In short, the instrument replaces earlier subordinate rules, establishes a ten‑year lifespan unless re‑made, and locks in a set of technical and administrative requirements aligned to external standards as they existed at specified dates. Any future change to standards, the Building Act/ Electricity Safety Act requirements, or to GMR’s policies will interact with this instrument unless the Regulations are themselves amended.

The Regulations were made on 4 June 2024 and commenced on 10 June 2024 (reg 3; endnotes). The document supplies no judicial decisions, appeals or litigation record connected to these Regulations. The Table of Amendments records no subsequent legislative amendments (endnotes). Therefore, based solely on the material in the regulation package:

There is no reported litigation or case law interpreting these 2024 Regulations in the text provided.
There is no record in the endnotes of legal challenges to the instrument, nor of prior litigation affecting the provisions now re‑enacted or revised.

Because enforcement relies on statutory offences and administrative decisions (licence refusals and revocations), litigation exposure exists in principle (judicial review of administrative decisions, prosecution challenges to alleged offences), but nothing in the Regulations’ text or endnotes records any litigation having occurred to date. Practitioners should therefore treat the scheme as untested in court as of the version date (10 June 2024). Any future cases would be instructive on points such as the legality of GMR’s licence caps (reg 10), the scope of consent required for inspections (reg 9(2)), and the sufficiency of compliance certificates under the Building Act as a licence precondition (reg 8(1)(g)).

Several features of the Regulations may be unexpected or produce compliance traps for owners, operators or service providers. These pitfalls are mechanical and derive directly from the text.

Inspection consent requirement: An authorised water officer may inspect systems for the purpose of verifying installations (reg 9(1)), but an inspection must not be undertaken without the consent of the owner and any occupier (reg 9(2)). This creates a potential enforcement gap; GMR cannot perform compulsory in situ inspections without consent. Owners should note that consent is required but that refusal could leave GMR to rely on documentary proof (compliance certificates) and other enforcement options.
Non‑transferability between vessels: A licence cannot be transferred to another houseboat (reg 15). Where a vessel is sold, the licence may be transferred to the new owner of the same vessel (reg 16) but the licence cannot be applied to a different physical vessel. Purchasers and brokers must account for this when valuing or moving licences.
Size cap: GMR will not issue licences for houseboats longer than 20 metres or wider than 8 metres (reg 8(1)(a)). Owners of larger vessels cannot obtain a licence to operate on the Lake under these Regulations.
Permanent mooring prerequisite: The applicant must have obtained a permanent mooring to be eligible for a licence (reg 8(1)(c)). The Regulations do not define ‘permanent mooring’ further; marinas or mooring providers may impose their own conditions or fees. This dependency can create practical barriers for applicants who cannot secure a berth.
Annual licence expiry date and pro‑rata fees: Licences expire on 30 June irrespective of issue date (reg 11). If applying after 31 July, fees are reduced by one twelfth for each completed month since 1 July (reg 7(3)), which creates a narrow window where a full‑year fee is payable. Applicants and owners should plan application timing with the annual cycle in mind.
Staged compliance timelines: The Regulations impose different dates for required greywater systems depending on type classification (reg 8(2)). New houseboats (as defined) applying from 11 June 2026 will be subject to new‑houseboat rules; type 2 new houseboats have an earlier date (11 June 2027) than type 1 and type 3 (1 Jan 2034) for some requirements (reg 8(2)(a)-(c)). Owners must track these dates to know whether a comprehensive system or only a simple/pre‑existing system is required.
Pre‑existing system narrow window: A pre‑existing on‑board greywater treatment system is narrowly defined as a device installed between 12 June 2013 and 17 October 2017 and compliant with a now‑superseded schedule from the 2013 Regulations (reg 5). Owners with systems installed earlier or later will not qualify for the ‘pre‑existing’ label and may be required to meet the newer standards.
Alignment with GMR pump‑out fittings: Both blackwater and comprehensive greywater systems must include a 32 mm camlock adaptor compatible with GMR’s sanitation stations (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(c)). Owners installing systems not compatible with GMR fittings could be effectively unable to pump out.
Technical testing and manufacturer reliance: Comprehensive greywater treatment systems must have been tested by the manufacturer under simulated conditions (Schedule 2 cl 16.1). The Regulations rely on manufacturer testing rather than regular statutory field testing or sampling requirements; owners should preserve manufacturer test documentation.
Fees and fee‑unit computation: Fees in Schedule 3 are expressed in fee units (e.g. 19.83 fee units for initial application). The dollar value depends on the fee unit for the relevant financial year, which changes annually (endnotes). Practitioners must compute exact dollar amounts for the relevant fiscal year and account for rounding rules specified in the endnotes.
Revocation procedural timescales: Reg 13 requires a minimum 14‑day remediation period and permits written submissions up to 28 days after the notice (reg 13(2)-(3)). However, the process structure could allow an extended period before final revocation, potentially affecting enforcement timeliness.
Penalty magnitudes variable: Penalties are expressed in penalty units and will change as the Treasurer fixes penalty unit values under the Sentencing Act 1991 (endnotes). Practitioners should not rely on fixed dollar amounts without checking the current penalty unit value.
School holiday licence exception limits: Restricted term licences for trailable houseboats may be issued for the duration of a school holiday period but no more than 14 days otherwise, and no more than four restricted licences to the same person per calendar year (reg 14(4)-(5)). This prevents repeated short stays under the restricted scheme.

Each of these items flows directly from the Regulations’ text and has potential commercial or compliance implications that owners, marinas and service providers should factor into transaction documents, compliance programmes and maintenance planning.

This is a practical compliance checklist distilled from the Regulations’ requirements, references and technical schedules. It focuses on steps an owner or prospective owner should take to obtain and keep a houseboat licence and to avoid the principal statutory offences.

Pre‑application steps

Confirm vessel eligibility:
- Ensure the houseboat is not more than 20 m in length and not more than 8 m in width (reg 8(1)(a)).
- Determine whether the vessel is a trailable houseboat (reg 5 definition) or otherwise, and whether it falls into type 1, type 2 or type 3 for greywater requirements (reg 5 definitions).
Secure a permanent mooring:
- Obtain a permanent mooring for the houseboat before applying (reg 8(1)(c)). Clarify with the mooring provider what constitutes a ‘permanent mooring’ for GMR purposes.
Determine required sanitation systems:
- Blackwater: Install an on‑board blackwater system meeting Schedule 1 specifications, or where design precludes such a system, arrange for an approved portable toilet (reg 8(1)(e); Schedule 1).
- Greywater: Identify which greywater treatment system is required based on vessel type and application date (reg 8(2)). For many vessels, particularly new commercial boats, a comprehensive system meeting the new greywater discharge standard (Schedule 2 Part 3 clause 17.2) will be required.
Engage licensed trades:
- Arrange for all plumbing to be carried out by a plumber licensed under Part 12A of the Building Act 1993 and ensure a compliance certificate will be issued for the plumbing work (reg 8(1)(g); Schedule 1 cl 12.4; Schedule 2 cl 15.1).
- If the greywater system requires electrical work, engage an electrical worker licensed under the Electricity Safety Act 1998 (Schedule 2 cl 15.2).
Ensure compatibility with GMR infrastructure:
- Fit the required 32 mm internal diameter camlock adaptor on pump‑out fittings and provide gastight covers where required (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(b)-(c)).
Documentation and manufacturer testing:
- Retain manufacturer testing data for comprehensive greywater systems (Schedule 2 cl 16.1).
- Ensure system plates and identity markings are attached as required and placards are installed for commercial vessels (Schedule 1 cl 15.1; Schedule 2 cl 13.1-13.3).

Application and inspection

Complete the application:
- Apply to GMR in the form and manner approved (reg 7(2)(a)), include proof of ownership, and pay the initial application fee set out in Schedule 3. If applying after 31 July, compute pro‑rata fee reduction (reg 7(3)).
Prepare for inspection and consent:
- Arrange for the GMR authorised water officer to inspect installations if required (reg 9(1)). Note that inspection cannot occur without owner and occupier consent (reg 9(2)), and the owner must pay the inspection fee in Schedule 3 (reg 9(3)).
Submit compliance certificates:
- Provide the compliance certificate(s) from the licensed plumber certifying all relevant plumbing work under the Building Act 1993 (reg 8(1)(g)). Keep records of electrical compliance where required.

Licence issue and ongoing compliance

Keep the licence on board for restricted term licences:
- For trailable houseboats with a restricted term licence, keep a copy of the licence on board at all times (reg 14(6)).
Maintain systems and avoid unauthorised alterations:
- Do not alter blackwater or greywater systems in a way that causes non‑compliance with the applicable specifications (regs 19-22). Use licensed trades for any repairs or modifications.
Use GMR waste collection for blackwater:
- Dispose only to a GMR waste collection facility (reg 18). Avoid any discharge to the Lake.
Monitor performance and maintenance:
- For comprehensive systems: maintain capacity at least 20 litres per person per day and other technical capacities in Schedule 2 cl 7.1.
- For blackwater system: ensure holding tank capacity meets the berth capacity table in Schedule 1 cl 4.1 and that the tank can be pumped out to at least 90 per cent of contents (Schedule 1 cl 3.1).
Address change notification:
- Advise GMR in writing of any change to primary residential address within 30 days of the change (reg 23).
Licence renewal and transfers:
- Renew licences annually before 30 June (reg 11). If selling the vessel, arrange a licence transfer application by the new owner with the transfer fee and evidence of ownership (reg 16).

Practical tips and risk management

Budget for capital and operating costs: New comprehensive greywater systems will need to meet the numerical new discharge standard (Schedule 2 cl 17.2). Budget for system purchase, installation by licensed professionals and ongoing maintenance and pump‑out costs to GMR.
Confirm pump‑out service availability: Engage GMR or marina operators early to confirm access and scheduling for pump‑outs. Compatibility with GMR fittings is a must (Schedule 1 cl 7.3; Schedule 2 cl 10.1(c)).
Keep records: Retain manufacturer test data, compliance certificates, maintenance logs and pump‑out receipts. These documents will support licence applications, inspections and any future revocation challenge.
Track deadlines and staged requirements: New houseboats and particular classes have deadlines 11 June 2026, 11 June 2027 and 1 January 2034 in reg 8(2). Assess which date applies to your vessel.
Legal and contractual drafting: In sales or charter contracts, explicitly address whether the houseboat licence transfers and allocate responsibility for ensuring the vessel’s systems are compliant and for obtaining the compliance certificate required under reg 8(1)(g).

Following this checklist aligns with the statutory prerequisites for licensing (reg 7-8), reduces exposure to the principal offences (regs 6, 17-18), and positions owners to meet the technical specifications required in Schedules 1 and 2.

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

Plain English Summary

Deep Dive

What it does

Current sections

Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

Source text: opening excerpt

1 Water (Lake Eildon Recreational Area) (Houseboats) Regulations 2024

Main concepts

Who it affects

Key duties and rights

Penalties and enforcement

How it interacts with other laws

Amendment history

Litigation history

Gotchas

How to comply