Council has installed and commissioned a new pump transfer station at the Dubbo Sewage Treatment Plant for the rapid fill and turnaround of water carting trucks.

Treated effluent is considered ideal for operational use in dust suppression and irrigation. Irrigation is its main use, with commercial and agricultural industries near the sewage treatment plant drawing on the water.

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"When people hear the phrase 'treated effluent', it instantly conjures up images and misconceptions in people's minds. The reality is, the treated effluent water that council is repurposing is very good and is regularly tested to ensure it is fit for purpose for alternative uses such as these," council chief executive officer Michael McMahon said.

The CEO said the stigma of effluent should be somewhat obsolete in 2019 thanks to the best-in-the-world practices in Australia.

"Given the need and demand for water in construction, farming and industry etc, having treated effluent at-hand in times of extreme drought is a far, far better proposition than expending precious water supplies on such activities as dust suppression," Mr McMahon said.

By using treated effluent for dust suppression, it limits the need for potable water to be used. Council says the new pump transfer station will further reduce the burden on town water supply while providing a rapid filling point for water carting trucks.

"The government has asked big water users like councils to look and innovative and smarter ways of conserving water, " Mr McMahon said.

"While treated effluent hasn't yet made its way into the community's everyday psyche or mainstream usage, there is absolutely no reason why a safe and plentiful water supply like this shouldn't be used to reduce the effects of dust during construction, rather than use our precious drinking water supplies."

Trucks carrying or operating treated effluent will be clearly identified by signage located on the front and back of the vehicle.

Effluent that is used for dust suppression has restrictions on its use, such as not being discharged in or around stormwater catchments.

More information on council's use of treated effluent in the local government area can be found on the Dubbo Regional Council website.