Waterwise gardening boom helps WA suburbs adapt to a hotter, drier climate
A record number of waterwise plants have been planted across Western Australia over the past year, as councils and communities turn to native and climate-suited gardens to create greener, more resilient suburbs.
More than 137,000 plants were co-funded across 22 local councils through the Water Corporation’s Waterwise Greening Scheme in 2025-26. This is the highest number since the program began.
The scheme also supported 210 waterwise verge transformations, more than double the previous year’s total, helping to replace thirsty lawn and conventional gardens with plants better suited to WA’s climate.
The push comes as the state faces growing pressure on its water resources. More than a third of residential water use occurs in gardens, while annual rainfall across southern WA has declined by about 20 per cent since the 1970s. Streamflow into Perth’s dams has fallen by around 80 per cent over the same period.
For urban areas, shifting towards native and waterwise plants can help reduce demand for scheme water while providing additional environmental benefits. Well-planned gardens and verges can provide shade, habitat and food for wildlife, support urban biodiversity and help reduce the heat generated by heavily built-up neighbourhoods.
The greening program is set to continue, with the next round of funding now open. Eligible Waterwise Councils can receive up to $5,000 for initiatives such as native plant giveaways, demonstration gardens, workshops and garden competitions.
The latest funding round means residents could again access free or subsidised waterwise plants through their local councils over the coming year. Check your local council’s website to find out more.
