Level 4 water restrictions to apply immediately

Published: 15th March 2026. (Note: information was correct at date of publication but may have since been changed or superseded.)

Cairns Regional Council has declared level 4 water restrictions ( PDF, 0.67 MB )with heavy overnight rainfall causing water treatment operations to be paused.

Level 4 restrict limits water usage for health and hygiene only - drinking, cooking and bathing.

High turbidity in Freshwater Creek catchment caused by heavy rain forced the Freshwater Treatment Plants offline about 1am this morning, leaving the region dependent on water stored in reservoirs.

The level 4 restrictions will reduce drawdown from the reservoirs to extend the availability of potable water.

With heavy rainfall expected to continue over the coming days and continued high turbidity in the system, it is unknown when treatment will recommence.

In addition to level 4 restrictions, the community can further help by limiting shower times and collecting rainwater for flushing toilets. Every extra bit of water saving counts.

Water restrictions will be reassessed once water treatment is reestablished, and supply is stabilised.

More information on level 4 water restrictions ( PDF, 0.67 MB ).

Last Updated: 17 March 2026