North Richmond Wastewater Treatment Plant, Sydney, New South Wales

North Richmond wastewater treatment plant is located on Grose Vale Road in North Richmond, within the Hawkesbury City Council area of Sydney, New South Wales. The plant serves a population of approximately 17,352 residents, classifying it as a medium-sized municipal facility in the region. As an operational plant, it is subject to the regulatory requirements of the New South Wales Environment Protection Authority (EPA), which sets discharge standards under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act. The plant discharges into the local watershed, which ultimately drains into the Hawkesbury River system. This river flows into the Tasman Sea via Broken Bay, supporting diverse aquatic ecosystems and providing water for agricultural and recreational uses downstream. The plant's inland location reduces direct marine impact but requires careful management to protect freshwater habitats.

The plant's treated effluent enters the Hawkesbury River catchment, a major coastal river system in New South Wales. The river flows through rural and urban areas before reaching Broken Bay and the Tasman Sea. This watershed supports significant biodiversity, including migratory fish species and riparian vegetation, and is an important water source for the region. Effective treatment is essential to maintain water quality in this ecologically sensitive river system.