Bore Water Basics: The Complete Walkthrough
This guide covers bore water basics, rated a hard task, typically taking days–weeks.
This is the expanded version of our bore water basics guide, for anyone who wants the full detail rather than just the quick-reference card.
Drilled, pumped, and tested
A bore accesses groundwater from an aquifer below the property, pumped to the surface for use — water quality and yield vary enormously by location, so testing before committing to a system is essential.
What You'll Need
Keep these points in mind:
- A licensed bore driller for your region
- Water licensing/approval — groundwater extraction is regulated in every Australian state
- A pump sized to the bore's depth and yield
- Water quality testing before committing to a specific use (drinking, stock, or irrigation only)
Step by Step
Worth paying attention to:
- 1. Check groundwater licensing requirements and any restrictions for your area before drilling.
- 2. Engage a licensed driller, who will typically also advise on likely depth and yield for your area based on local knowledge.
- 3. Test water quality thoroughly once the bore is producing — salinity and mineral content vary enormously even between nearby properties.
- 4. Install a pump sized correctly for the bore's depth and sustainable yield.
- 5. Set up appropriate treatment if needed for your intended use, based on test results.
Common Issues
Keep these points in mind:
- Poor water quality (high salinity/minerals) — common in some regions; may still be suitable for stock or irrigation even if not for drinking.
- Low or declining yield — can indicate aquifer depletion or a bore issue; consult your driller for reassessment.
- Pump issues — ensure the pump is correctly matched to bore depth and yield; an undersized or oversized pump both cause problems.
- Unclear on permitted uses — confirm with your state authority exactly what your licence permits (stock/domestic/irrigation allowances often differ).
Ongoing Timing
Best time — any time, though drilling access can be affected by very wet ground conditions. Duration — a properly installed bore is a long-term water source, often for decades. Maintenance — periodic pump servicing and water quality re-testing, particularly if usage patterns change. Signs of success — a reliable, tested yield sufficient for your intended use, with water quality suited to that specific application.
For the condensed printable version, head to the main guide page linked below.