20 Mar 2026
World Water Day survey finds Tasmanians want to save water - but habits get in the way
A new World Water Day survey has revealed how Tasmanians use water in their daily lives - and what’s stopping many of us from saving more. Ahead of World Water Day on Sunday, TasWater asked Tasmanians about their everyday water habits, what motivates them to save water, and the household routines they are least willing to change. The results show most people care about protecting Tasmania’s water supply, but long‑held habits remain a challenge.
What the survey found
More than 40 per cent of respondents identified as a “shirt sniffer” - choosing to re‑wear clothes rather than wash them straight away - making it the most common water‑saving personality type.
When it comes to showers, 60 per cent said they keep their showers under five minutes. However, 15 per cent admitted they spend nine minutes or more under the water.
In the kitchen, around one‑third of people said they rinse plates before putting them in the dishwasher - a habit that can use more water than needed in many homes.
Asked what they refuse to compromise on, Tasmanians ranked sparkling dishes as their top non‑negotiable, followed by long showers and daily laundry.
Why it matters
Protecting Tasmania’s water supply was the strongest motivation for saving water, closely followed by cost‑of‑living pressures. Despite this, 68 per cent of respondents believe Tasmanians are not very good at saving water, with many pointing to habits - not lack of awareness - as the biggest barrier.
TasWater Head of Communications and Engagement Liz Hafner said small changes, made by many households, can make a real difference across the state.
“Most people want to do the right thing, but habits are hard to break,” Mrs Hafner said. “The good news is you don’t have to give things up to save water. Shortening a shower, skipping the pre‑rinse before the dishwasher, or reusing water around the home can all help protect local supply.”
Survey participants also shared their own water‑saving ideas - from using rainwater on indoor plants, to checking for hidden leaks, to simply being more mindful about when and how often they use water. A simple challenge for World Water Day
To mark World Water Day, TasWater is encouraging Tasmanians to choose one water‑saving habit to try next week - and stick with it.
Small changes, repeated every day, help support reliable water services, growing communities, and a sustainable future for Tasmania.
Check out our water-saving tips
Learn more about World Water Day