From 1 May 2026, new rules come into effect in Victoria for tapware and plumbing products that come into contact with drinking water. The change is designed to reduce the amount of lead that can be present in these products.

Aquaclear is pleased to confirm that only Lead-Free certified products will be installed for our customers from 1 May 2026. Note that this commitment by Aquaclear will also apply for product installation in any other States where the legal implementation date is from 1 May 2028.

For business customers, this matters when upgrading, replacing or installing taps, drinking fountains, water filters, bubblers, chilled water systems or other plumbing products connected to potable water.

The key change is that many copper alloy plumbing products will meet a much lower lead content requirement. In simple terms, products used for drinking water need to be certified as lead free under the WaterMark Certification Scheme.

This applies to a wide range of products commonly used in workplaces, offices, schools, hospitality venues, healthcare settings, public facilities and commercial buildings. It includes items such as taps, mixers, valves, fittings and drinking water outlets. 

For businesses, the safest approach is to check that any new tapware or drinking water product is clearly marked or supplied as Lead-Free WaterMark certified. This helps ensure the product meets the new requirements and is suitable for use with drinking water.

This change does not mean every existing tap needs to be immediately replaced. Note that many of the filtered water systems installed by Aquaclear are fitted with an advanced filtration system that significantly reduces the incidence of lead and other contaminants entering the water supply from other sources. 

However, when products are being installed, repaired or upgraded, you can be assured that Aquaclear will only select and install compliant lead-free products for your business.