Perth households can save water and money by swapping old showerheads for free new water-saving showerheads under an Australian Government funded project launched today.

Senator Don Farrell, Parliamentary Secretary for Sustainability and Urban Water, said the Gillard Labor Government’s $2.4 million contribution, promised during the election campaign, gives families a chance to save water and save on their water bills.

“The $4.8 million Perth Residential Water Efficiency project offers Perth residents the opportunity to exchange up to two old showerheads for high-quality and highly efficient 3-star rated replacements,” Senator Farrell said.

“One new showerhead will save between 7,000 and 11,000 litres of water per person each year and can save an average family of four up to $55 a year off their water bills.”

The showerheads can be exchanged for free at any Bunnings store located in the Perth metropolitan area.

“Australia is a land of extremes – whilst our thoughts and prayers are with those across Australia who have suffered from the worst flooding in living memory, Perth experienced record dries in 2010,” Senator Farrell said.

“Investment in water saving initiatives like this program help manage our water resources over the long term and enable us to be better prepare for Australia’s variable climatic conditions.”

As part of the project, an audit and retrofit of 4,000 households will be rolled out to repair leaks, make fixtures more efficient and identify practical ways to use less water in Perth.

The program also will enable 10,000 households to take part in the H2ome Smart water-saving education program in late 2011.

The Water Corporation of Western Australia will manage the program, while Bunnings, a program partner, will supply and distribute the water efficient showerheads.