South East Queensland’s water use is at a record high following a hot and dry summer.

January’s average water use was the highest since the Millennium Drought broke more than a decade ago.

Water use peaked at an average of 239 litres per person per day, an increase of almost 70 litres a day extra than the average 170 litres per person per day since the Millennium Drought broke.

And while it's not hard to see why water use jumps when the weather is hot and dry, it's an important reminder to be water wise as we move into the typically drier months of the year and as our drinking water dam levels edge towards 70%, our trigger to begin the 'drought readiness' phase. More about drought readiness

Our top water wise tips

1. Water the grass and garden before 10am and after 4pm - avoid the heat of the day when evaporation is at its worst
2. Check for leaks - many leaks are underground so you may need to use your water meter to check for leaks at home and in your irrigation system.
3. A good mulch will help your plants retain water and reduce weeds that also compete for water.
4. Use a pool cover on your pool to reduce evaporation
5. Do full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher