This World Toilet Day we're focusing on 'sanitation in a changing world '. Sanitation will always remain a constant necessity in everyday life, however 3.4 billion people still live without safely managed sanitation services — that’s nearly half the world’s population.
Background:
There are many pressures affecting universal access to sanitation — including ageing infrastructure, climate change, and insufficient investment. Billions of people around the world still live without access to a safe toilet, with women and girls among those most heavily impacted. This World Toilet Day highlights the need for toilets designed for the future — toilets that are accessible, low-emission, and supported by strong systems and sustained investment. Access to safe sanitation is a basic human right, and building resilient systems today will ensure a healthier, fairer future for all.
How can you take action?
Everyone can play a part in achieving safe sanitation for all — starting right here in our community.
1. Learn
- Visit the World Toilet Day website to explore this year’s theme and discover stories from around the world or read the World Toilet Day 2025: Factsheet.
- Head to UN-Water to see how sanitation links to climate, health, and equality.
- Check the SDG 6 Data Portal to see how Australia compares to other countries in access to toilets and safe sanitation.
2. Share
- Use #WorldToiletDay to spread awareness online and start conversations with friends, family, or students.
- Download campaign posters, videos, and graphics to share through your school, workplace, or community network.
3. Act
- Explore the World Toilet Day Activation Kit for fun, educational activities — perfect for classrooms, workshops, or family discussions.
Organise a talk, quiz, or creative project that highlights why sanitation matters — from wastewater treatment to toilet design innovations.
Make your own commitment through the Water Action Agenda and be part of the global effort to protect health and the environment.
Local Focus: Wipes Block Pipes
When it comes to sanitation, many people across Australia and right here in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region use wet wipes, often flushing them down the toilet without realising the damage they cause. In our local community, this creates serious environmental impacts and costly blockages in our wastewater network.
In Australia, we’re incredibly privileged to have access to safe sanitation — but it’s up to all of us to look after it. No wet wipes can be flushed down the toilet, even those labelled flushable, biodegradable, or compostable. These products do not break down quickly enough and can clog pipes, damage pumps, and lead to expensive repairs for both Council and households.
Remember the three Ps rule — only Pee, Poo, and toilet Paper should ever be flushed. Everything else belongs in the bin. By making this simple change, we can all help protect our environment and keep our wastewater system flowing smoothly.
To learn how to better protect your sewer network and understand what can and can’t be flushed head to Wipes Block Pipes.
