The City of Onkaparinga is actively seeking community support to transfer the ownership and operation of its Community Wastewater Management Systems (CWMS) to SA Water, aiming to enhance service efficiency and reduce costs for residents.

Currently, the council manages seven CWMS networks serving approximately 4,500 households in areas not connected to SA Water's sewer network, including Clarendon, Maslin Beach, McLaren Flat, McLaren Vale, Morphett Vale, Sellicks Beach, and Willunga.

Following extensive community engagement, residents have expressed a clear preference for these assets to remain in public ownership, with many favoring SA Water—the state's largest water utility—due to its expertise and economies of scale. The council believes that SA Water's management could lead to reduced wastewater charges for many customers.

To advance this initiative, the council has launched a petition addressed to the South Australian Parliament's House of Assembly, advocating for the transfer of CWMS assets to SA Water. Community members are encouraged to participate by signing the petition, available at council offices, libraries, and community centers from 31 October 2024 to 20 January 2025. It's important to note that, in accordance with House of Assembly guidelines, the petition requires physical signatures; therefore, an online option is not available.

In January 2025, the petition will be presented to a local Member of Parliament for tabling. Regardless of the petition's outcome, the council remains committed to exploring opportunities to improve the efficiency and sustainability of its wastewater management systems.

Residents are urged to participate in this significant community initiative by visiting their nearest council facility to sign the petition before the 20 January 2025 deadline. For more information on the CWMS networks and the petition, please visit the City of Onkaparinga's official website.