Australia’s vast and varied landscape presents unique challenges when it comes to wastewater treatment. In urban areas, most properties are connected to town sewer systems. But in rural, remote, and semi-rural locations, properties must rely on on-site solutions—septic systems—to treat and manage wastewater effectively.
At Eco Septic, we specialise in providing high-quality, Australian-made wastewater treatment systems to meet the needs of homeowners, businesses, developers, and environmental consultants across NSW and beyond. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading an existing system, understanding the different types of septic systems available in Australia is essential for choosing the right solution for your site, soil, and usage.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the most common septic system types used in Australia, how they work, their pros and cons, and which systems Eco Septic offers to help you make the best decision.
Why Choosing the Right Septic System Matters
Your septic system isn’t just a piece of infrastructure—it’s a vital component of your property’s health, hygiene, and environmental impact. Choosing the wrong system can lead to:
- Poor wastewater treatment
- Soil and groundwater contamination
- Unpleasant odours and overflows
- Costly repairs or replacements
Factors like block size, soil type, water table level, household size, local regulations, and usage volume must all be considered. That’s why Eco Septic provides expert consultation and custom-built systems for any property—residential, commercial, or agricultural.
The Most Common Types of Septic Systems in Australia
1. Conventional Septic Tank System
Best for: Rural properties with suitable soil and large areas for absorption trenches.
A conventional septic system consists of a concrete or poly tank buried underground, where solids settle and liquids are released into the surrounding soil via absorption trenches or leach drains.
How it works:
- Wastewater flows from the house into the tank.
- Solids settle at the bottom and are partially broken down by anaerobic bacteria.
- The remaining liquid (effluent) flows into an absorption trench system.
- The soil treats the effluent naturally.
Pros:
- Simple and cost-effective
- Low energy use
- Long-lasting when properly maintained
Cons:
- Requires large land area
- May not work well in clay soils or high water table areas
- Not suitable for high water usage households
Eco Septic Solution:
We manufacture high-quality concrete septic tanks in sizes from 2800L to over 8500L, fully compliant with Australian standards and tailored to your soil type and site layout.
2. Aerated Wastewater Treatment System (AWTS)
Best for: Properties requiring higher treatment standards or with limited space.
AWTS systems, like those designed and installed by Eco Septic, use aerobic treatment processes to break down waste more efficiently than conventional systems. These systems treat water in multiple chambers using air pumps, bacteria, and filtration.
How it works:
- Wastewater enters a primary tank (similar to a septic tank) where solids settle.
- It then flows into an aeration chamber where oxygen-loving bacteria break down waste.
- Further chambers may include clarification and disinfection (e.g., chlorination or UV).
- Treated water is then pumped to the garden or lawn through surface or subsurface irrigation.
Pros:
- Higher quality effluent
- Reuse of treated water for irrigation
- Compact design ideal for smaller blocks
- Better for sensitive environments
Cons:
- Requires quarterly servicing (as mandated by NSW Health)
- Higher upfront and ongoing costs
- Needs electricity to run pumps and aerators
Eco Septic Solution:
Our Australian-made AWTS systems are ideal for properties in NSW, Victoria, Queensland, ACT, and Tasmania, and are custom-built to suit your land and household size. We also offer professional 3-monthly servicing, as required by law.
3. Sand Filter Systems
Best for: Sites with poor soil or strict local environmental requirements.
A sand filter system is often used in conjunction with a septic or AWTS system to provide additional treatment by filtering effluent through a sand bed before dispersal.
How it works:
- Effluent is pumped from the treatment tank into a sand filter bed.
- The sand acts as a biological and physical filter, removing nutrients and pathogens.
- The filtered water is then dispersed into the environment.
Pros:
- Greatly improves water quality
- Works in sites with poor or unsuitable soil
- Can be used where irrigation isn’t allowed
Cons:
- Requires more space
- Installation and maintenance can be costly
- Regular monitoring is needed to avoid clogging
Eco Septic Solution:
Eco Septic can design custom hybrid systems incorporating sand filters for properties with challenging soil conditions or sensitive locations near creeks, wetlands, or protected zones.
4. Mound Systems
Best for: Sites with shallow bedrock, high groundwater, or heavy clay soils.
Mound systems are engineered to overcome poor site conditions by elevating the drainage field above ground.
How it works:
- Wastewater is treated in a tank or AWTS.
- Treated effluent is pumped to an artificial mound constructed of sand, gravel, and soil.
- The effluent filters through the mound before entering the natural soil below.
Pros:
- Ideal for difficult terrain
- Prevents groundwater contamination
- Works where trenches are not possible
Cons:
- Large footprint and visual impact
- Higher installation and maintenance costs
- Requires expert design and engineering
Eco Septic Solution:
We partner with environmental consultants and engineers to design and install mound systems across NSW. Our systems comply with council regulations and are built with sustainability and reliability in mind.
5. Pump Wells and Collection Wells
Best for: Properties with complex site elevations or requiring greywater separation.
Pump wells and collection wells are not full systems on their own but are used as components to help manage the flow and pressure of wastewater, particularly in multi-level or low-lying sites.
Eco Septic Solution:
We manufacture pump wells and collection tanks designed to integrate seamlessly with septic and AWTS systems. These are ideal for moving effluent uphill to a dispersal area or irrigation zone.
6. Commercial & Maxi Systems
Best for: Caravan parks, resorts, eco-villages, schools, service stations, and mining sites.
For high-capacity or multi-user applications, Eco Septic offers custom-designed commercial systems, including our Maxi Range from 15,000L to 120,000L.
Eco Septic Solution:
These advanced systems are tailored for:
- Holiday parks and accommodation
- Farm stays and eco-tourism ventures
- Remote business locations
- Commercial and industrial sites
With over 30 years of experience, we offer turnkey solutions, including:
- System design and engineering
- Council documentation
- Installation and commissioning
- Ongoing service and spare parts
Choosing the Right Septic System: Factors to Consider
When deciding which septic system is right for your property, keep the following in mind:
1. Property Size and Layout
Large lots with good soil may suit conventional systems, while small or steep blocks may require AWTS or mound systems.
2. Soil Conditions
Clay soil, sandy soil, and areas with a high water table require special attention. Soil testing is essential.
3. Water Usage
High-usage households may require larger tanks or advanced treatment systems to avoid overloading.
4. Local Council Requirements
Different LGAs across NSW have varying rules and approval processes. Eco Septic is familiar with NSW regulations and will assist with documentation and compliance.
5. Environmental Sensitivity
If you’re near a waterway, wetland, or conservation area, you may need advanced filtration or irrigation restrictions.
Eco Septic’s Commitment to Sustainable, Compliant Solutions
At Eco Septic, we take pride in delivering eco-friendly, durable, and fully compliant wastewater systems designed for Australian conditions. All of our systems are:
- Australian-made
- Compliant with relevant AS/NZS standards
- Installed by licensed professionals
- Backed by expert servicing and support
Whether you’re on acreage in regional NSW, building an off-grid tiny home, or developing a multi-lot project, we have a solution for you.
How We Help You Choose the Right System
- Site Assessment – We review your location, soil, usage needs, and council regulations.
- System Recommendation – We propose the most suitable system options and layout.
- Custom Design – We can tailor systems to your specific needs, including tank size, dispersal area, and filtration.
- Installation – Our team handles everything from excavation to connection.
- Ongoing Support – We offer regular servicing, spare parts, and maintenance plans to keep your system running smoothly.
Septic systems are a critical part of sustainable living for many Australians, especially in rural and off-grid areas. With so many options available, it’s important to understand the strengths and limitations of each system.
At Eco Septic, we’re here to make that decision easy by providing expert advice, top-quality products, and full-service solutions tailored to your needs.
📞 Call Eco Septic today on 1800 808 135
🌐 Or visit www.ecoseptic.com.au to book a consultation or get a free quote.
