Bore Water vs Scheme Water for Garden Irrigation
If you’re maintaining a garden in Western Australia, especially through long, dry summers, choosing the right water source is critical.
One of the most common questions homeowners ask is: bore water vs scheme water — which is better for garden irrigation?
The answer depends on several factors including cost, property location, water restrictions and long-term usage. In many parts of the South West, both options are available—but they serve very different purposes.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between bore water vs scheme water, helping you decide which option makes the most sense for your property.
What Is Bore Water?
Bore water is groundwater that is accessed by drilling a bore into an underground aquifer.
A typical garden bore:
taps into shallow groundwater systems
is used mainly for irrigation
supplies water via a pump and reticulation system
Across much of coastal Western Australia, garden bores draw from superficial aquifers that are recharged by rainfall.
According to Government of Western Australia groundwater resources information, these aquifers play a major role in supplying water for both residential and regional use.
Because bore water is not treated, it is generally used for:
lawns and gardens
irrigation systems
outdoor cleaning
rather than drinking or household use.
What Is Scheme Water?
Scheme water (also known as mains water) is supplied by public utilities and delivered through a centralised network.
In Western Australia, this is managed by Water Corporation, which provides treated drinking water to homes and businesses across the state.
Scheme water is:
treated and safe for drinking
consistently monitored for quality
charged based on usage
It’s designed for household consumption, but many properties also use it for garden irrigation—especially if they don’t have access to a bore.
Key Differences Between Bore Water and Scheme Water
When comparing bore water vs scheme water, it helps to look at the differences side by side.
| Factor | Bore Water | Scheme Water |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low ongoing cost after installation | Ongoing usage charges |
| Availability | Depends on groundwater conditions | Available to most properties |
| Water Restrictions | More flexible (still regulated) | Strict watering rosters |
| Water Quality | Untreated, variable | Treated, drinking quality |
| Environmental Impact | Uses local groundwater | Draws from dams, desalination and aquifers |
This comparison highlights why many homeowners consider installing a bore when looking for a long-term irrigation solution.
Cost Comparison: Which Is Cheaper?
One of the biggest drivers behind the bore water vs scheme water decision is cost.
Scheme Water Costs
With scheme water, you pay for:
every kilolitre used
ongoing utility charges
increasing tariffs over time
For properties with large gardens or irrigation systems, these costs can add up quickly—especially during summer.
Bore Water Costs
Bore water requires an upfront investment:
drilling and installation
pump and electrical setup
However, once installed:
ongoing costs are minimal
water is effectively “free” aside from electricity for the pump
Over time, many homeowners find that bore water becomes significantly cheaper—particularly for high irrigation usage.
Long-Term Perspective
| Cost Type | Scheme Water | Bore Water |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | Low | Moderate |
| Ongoing Cost | High | Low |
| Long-Term Value | Lower | Higher |
This is why, when comparing bore water vs scheme water, bore systems are often seen as a long-term investment rather than a short-term expense.
Water Restrictions and Reliability
Another major factor in the bore water vs scheme water decision is how and when you’re allowed to use the water.
Scheme Water Restrictions
Scheme water in WA is subject to strict watering rules.
For example, the Water Corporation enforces:
sprinkler rosters (specific watering days)
time restrictions (before 9am or after 6pm)
winter sprinkler bans
These restrictions are designed to conserve water across the state.
Bore Water Flexibility
Bore water is also regulated, but typically offers more flexibility.
In many South West areas:
garden bore users can water more frequently
restrictions are less limiting than scheme water
irrigation is more consistent during peak summer periods
This makes bore water particularly valuable for maintaining healthy gardens when water demand is highest.
Reliability
Scheme water is reliable but restricted
Bore water depends on groundwater availability but offers greater control
For properties in areas with strong groundwater systems—particularly west of the Darling Scarp—bore water is often a dependable irrigation source.
Water Quality: Does It Matter for Your Garden?
Water quality is another important consideration when comparing bore water vs scheme water.
Scheme Water Quality
Scheme water is:
treated to drinking standards
consistent in quality
safe for all household uses
Bore Water Quality
Bore water is untreated and can vary depending on:
location
soil composition
depth
According to HealthyWA, bore water may contain:
minerals such as iron
higher salinity in some coastal areas
natural variations in composition
Is Bore Water Suitable for Gardens?
In most cases, yes.
Bore water is commonly used for:
lawns
native plants
irrigation systems
However, some plants may be sensitive to salinity, so water testing can be beneficial in certain areas.
Which Option Is Right for Your Property?
When deciding between bore water vs scheme water, the right choice depends on your property and how you use water.
A Garden Bore Makes Sense If:
you have a large garden or irrigation system
you want to reduce long-term water costs
your property is located in a groundwater-rich area
you’re west of the Darling Scarp
Scheme Water May Be Enough If:
your outdoor water usage is low
you have a small garden
groundwater access is limited
you don’t want upfront installation costs
Location Matters
Properties in the South West—particularly coastal areas like:
Bunbury
Busselton
Australind
often benefit from favourable groundwater conditions, making bore installation more viable.
How Australind WBC Can Help
Choosing between bore water vs scheme water isn’t just about preference—it’s about understanding your property.
Australind WBC helps homeowners by:
Assessing Property Suitability
They evaluate:
groundwater availability
local bore data
expected drilling depth
Installing Efficient Bore Systems
Their process includes:
drilling
casing
pump installation
system setup
Most residential bores are completed efficiently, with systems tailored to each property.
Providing Local Expertise
With extensive experience across the South West, they understand:
regional geology
groundwater behaviour
what works best in each area
If you’re considering a bore, you can learn more about water bore drilling services in WA or request a quote to assess your property.
Final Summary
When comparing bore water vs scheme water, the key differences come down to cost, flexibility and long-term value.
Scheme water is reliable, treated and easy to access—but comes with ongoing costs and strict restrictions
Bore water requires an upfront investment but offers low ongoing costs and greater irrigation flexibility
For many homeowners in the South West of WA, particularly those with larger gardens, bore water provides a practical and cost-effective solution for long-term irrigation.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your property, water usage and whether groundwater is accessible in your area.
If you’re looking for a more sustainable and cost-efficient way to maintain your garden, a bore system is often worth considering.