Understanding the stormwater network

The stormwater network is a shared system. Councils, Hunter Water and property owners each look after different pipes, drains and channels.

When it rains, stormwater flows from roofs, roads and footpaths into drains. These drains connect to a network of pipes, channels, drains, culverts, floating booms and tidal gates that carry rainwater into local waterways like rivers, creeks and the ocean.

Stormwater responsibilities

It is important to know that the stormwater network is separate from the wastewater (sewer) network. Learn how they are different

Hunter Water’s stormwater catchments

Hunter Water maintains around 92 kilometres of stormwater assets in:

• Newcastle – most of our stormwater network is within the Newcastle area, with about 80 kilometres in the catchments of Throsby, Cottage, Dark and Ironbark Creeks.
• Lake Macquarie – about 4.5 kilometres in the Winding Creek catchment through Cardiff. View our Memorandum of Understanding with Lake Macquarie Council

• Cessnock – about 10.3 kilometres in the Black Creek catchment through the centre of Cessnock. View our Memorandum of Understanding with Cessnock Council

Properties connected to Hunter Water’s stormwater drains in these catchments are charged the stormwater drainage charge.

Rubbish or trolleys in stormwater drains

Open stormwater channels can become dumping grounds for unwanted items. These block drains, increase flood risks and create an eyesore.

The difference between stormwater and wastewater

Stormwater is rain that runs off hard surfaces like roofs, driveways, roads and footpaths. It's untreated and flows into stormwater drains and then directly into local waterways like creeks, rivers and the ocean, without being treated.

Wastewater is the used water from toilets, sinks, showers and washing machines. It moves through the sewer network to a treatment plant, where it is filtered and treated before being safely released back into the environment. Learn more about your sewer service.

Wet weather impacts

Heavy rain and storms can put pressure on both the stormwater and sewer networks. When there is too much water in the system, it can lead to wet weather overflows, where rainwater enters the sewer and causes it to back up.

Properties in low-lying or flood-prone areas are most at risk during these events. Incorrect connections between stormwater and sewer pipes can also increase the chance of an overflow.

If you are worried about how your property drains during heavy rain, it may help to check your stormwater system or contact a licensed plumber.

Stay safe around stormwater

Stormwater channels, culverts and pipes can be dangerous places. It is important that you don’t go into the stormwater system even if the weather is fine. Stormwater systems are dangerous because:

• Water can rise quickly and unexpectedly, even when it's not raining in the local area.
• Huge amounts of water can suddenly wash into the drain when it does rain.
• You may not be able to get out of a stormwater system if you are swept away by the stormwater and it is possible that you could even drown.
• Even shallow water can be very powerful and could knock you over.
• Drains can contain pollution like broken glass, needles, dangerous chemicals and disease-causing bacteria.

During heavy rainfall areas can become flooded, including roads and footpaths. When areas are flooded it is important to keep away or make sure you can clearly see where you're walking. Do not drive through flooded areas.