Community information programs are particularly important. Research shows it is possible to gain broad community acceptance for recycled water if there is an open public dialogue that educates the community through words and images that avoid causing stigma or an emotional response.36 37 Stigma or negative reactions to drinking recycled water can occur by using images, words or phrases that suggest treated recycled water is unclean. Changing community perception is difficult once recycled water has been labelled in this way.
Increased public communication about the appropriate treatment and management of recycled water, and its safety, should be a priority for the Australian Government.