Septic System Cost
5 Things You Should Know
When considering a what type of septic system you want or need there are several factors that determine your septic system cost.
1. Type of Septic System
The type of septic system you require will greatly impact the overall cost. In general, gravity-fed systems tend to be more affordable as they rely on the natural slope of the land to manage wastewater flow. However, if your property doesn’t have the necessary incline, you’ll need a pump system, which is more complex and comes with higher installation and maintenance costs. Make sure to assess the topography of your land to determine which option is more suitable and cost-effective.
2. Number of Bedrooms
The size of your septic system is directly related to the size of your home, particularly the number of bedrooms. More bedrooms typically mean more people, which leads to higher wastewater production. For a standard four-bedroom house, the dispersal area will need to be larger, which can increase installation costs. Keep in mind that even if you have fewer occupants, the system must be designed to handle the potential capacity, meaning more bedrooms equal higher costs for larger tanks and dispersal fields.
3. Septic Tank Materials
The materials used to construct your septic tank are another key factor in cost. Polyethylene (poly) tanks are generally more affordable, lighter, and easier to install. However, concrete tanks, though heavier and more expensive, are highly durable and can last longer in the right conditions. Each option comes with its pros and cons in terms of price, lifespan, and resistance to damage, so weigh the initial investment against long-term durability when making your choice.
4. Local Council Regulations
Your local council’s regulations can add to your septic system cost. Septic tank installation often requires permits, and the fees for these can vary depending on where you live. Some councils may also have specific requirements for system design, installation, or ongoing inspections, which could drive up costs. Be sure to research the regulations in your area and factor in any additional fees, inspections, or compliance costs that may apply.
5. Condition and Location of Your Land
The state of your land can play a significant role in determining how much you’ll pay for your septic system. If the land is rocky, hard to excavate, or difficult to access with heavy machinery, the installation process can become more labor-intensive, leading to higher costs. Likewise, land with poor drainage or low-lying areas may require additional engineering or treatment solutions, increasing both the complexity and price of the project.
There could be other factors that affect the Cost of your Septic System
Like Secondary Wastewater Treatment.
- Does your location or council regulations mean that you will need secondary treatment?
Here’s the Good News!
Secondary Treatment Accredited
We are very excited to announce this accreditation, particularly as our Worm Farm Waste System achieved compliance within the first week of testing without any modifications to our original design.
The results prove our system has always delivered a high-quality level of effluent.
The original A&A Worm Farm Waste System is now accredited for secondary AS 1546.3:2017
Our system truly cares for the environment in so many ways and is the future of wastewater management.
The benefits speak for themselves
- Single chamber dispersed via internal pump or gravity to underground Reln trenches.
- Strain through process with minimal fluid storage in the tank. (less than 100mm depth under the filter bed)
- Low power consumption approximately $175 per year or no power required if gravity fed
- No chemical disinfection ever
- No scum or sludge
- No smells
- Natural wind aeration
- Organic food / animal waste composting
- Services every 2 - 5 years
Pricing Guide For Septic Systems
Septic System Cost for Residential or Rural
The cost to supply and install our Eco-Friendly Septic Tank System for the average 4 bedroom home starts at $15,000 depending on council trenching requirements.
Ongoing Costs:
- There are no ongoing service contracts.
- Your system does not require desludging every 3-5 years.
- A 4 bedroom home will cost you approximately $175 in electricity per annum.
Septic System Cost for Commercial Systems
The cost to supply and install a Commercial Septic System will vary considerable. Many factors will determine the cost however most commercial systems start at $25,000.
Ongoing Costs:
- There are no ongoing service contracts.
- Your system does not require desludging every 3-5 years.
Do You Need A Free Quote
Please complete the form to receive a FREE Septic System Quote.
We will respond to you inquiry within 24hrs during normal business hours.
Here’s Why Over 3700 Aussie's Choose Our Truly Organic Septic System
- Secondary Wastewater Treatment Certified – AS 1546.3:2017
- Company established in 1996.
- Over 3700 systems installed in Australia (2026).
- Residential & Commercial systems.
- Approved in VIC, NSW, SA, QLD & NT.
- Company trained employees manufacture, install and service the systems.
- Council Permit Applications - ‘We talk council speak’ and apply for you.
- Single chamber with low site impact.
- No chemical or chlorine disinfection chamber.
- No smells – The system remains aerobic via a wind driven vent pipe.
- No scum or sludge.
- No large power bills – approx. $175 per year to run. (Independently tested in 2024).
- 20 times faster and more complete in processing solids than traditional septic or aerated wastewater systems (AWTS). Secondary quality effluent is produced within a week of installation.
- The only secondary wastewater system certified by Australian Standards for organic food composting with the potential to reduce your organic food waste volume by up to 90%.
- No Service Contracts.
- The system can remain dormant for 2 years or longer. Worms form eggs and regenerate when you return from holiday.
- The pumps are very quiet and only activate on demand.
- The use of normal household cleaning products won’t affect the worms.
- The system is suitable for all soils, climates, desert, tropical and alpine.
- Environmentally friendly and sustainable.
- Natural liquid fertiliser is added into your soil, improving all soils 100mm both vertically and horizontally per year.
- 10 Year System Warranty / Component Warranties.
All our residential systems come with a Child Proof Entry
People Are Talking About Our Eco-Friendly Septic System
Blue Mountains 2011
We built our new farm house in the Megalong Valley in the Blue Mountains in 2011 and installed a worm farm at the recommendation of our builder. It was considered so much better than a septic system for a range of reasons.
It has operated smoothly, and with no problems since then.
I would strongly recommend the system for anyone in our circumstances.
It is testament of the strength of the product and it’s relevance that you are still operating after 26 years.
Thank you
John A
Best Choice We Ever Made
Hello Liz. Thank you so much for your quick reply. Yes, we will send all the information to the new owner. We are sad to leave our little block, with the worm farm the best choice we ever made for the block. But due to health and family issues, we have moved to Brisbane and now dealing with the city sewerage system.
Thank you so much, especially to Alan who was so wonderful and to Doug when he installed our system. Doug loved him.
Thank you again
Myrna
The Smart Choice
We’ve had our system for over 2 years now and it’s been the smart choice of the septic systems we looked at. The running costs have been minimal and its needed no maintenance. It’s been excellent using the system day to day including the disposal of our organic waste.
Big plus for the environment as well. Highly recommend this septic tank system to anyone.
NSW Central Coast
Helen K