From 1 July 2006, the voluntary 'A' rating scheme for products that use water in the home was phased out and replaced with a 'star' rating similar to that used for energy products.

The star efficiency rated products include dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, urinals, showers, and taps. Flow control devices are subject to voluntary rating and labelling.

The more 'Stars' on the label, the more water efficient the product is.

There are interim provisions made for products imported and manufactured before 1 July 2006, including washing machines that may be sold unregistered and unlabelled until 31 December 2007 and the other star rated products may be sold unregistered and unlabelled until 31 December 2006.

To be eligible for a rebate washing machines must either be '4 stars' or '5A' rated until 30 June 2007, showers '3 stars' or '4A' rated until 31 December 2006. After 1 January 2007 only showers and flow regulators rated '3 stars' or better will be eligible for rebate.

The scheme is administered and operated by the Commonwealth. A WA Bill has been submitted to Parliament to allow the Commonwealth to operate the scheme in WA. Registration of products and further information on the star rating scheme is at www.waterrating.gov.au.