A key part of the WELS Scheme is the introduction of a new water rating label to assist consumers to purchase more water-efficient household products. It also provides incentive for manufacturers to improve the water efficiency of these products.

　　The WELS Water Rating label was introduced in 2005. From 1 Jan. 2007, it will be mandatory across Australia for showers; clothes washing machines; dishwashers; toilet equipment; urinal equipment; and tap equipment intended for use over kitchen sinks, bathroom basins, laundry tubs or ablution troughs, to carry a WELS Water Rating label when they are offered for sale.

　　Flow controllers may also carry a label, but this will not be mandatory.

　　The WELS Water Rating label has two main features:

• A star rating that gives a quick comparative assessment of the model's water efficiency

• A water consumption figure that provides an estimate of the water consumption of the product based on its tested water consumption

　　Labels will display from 1 to 6 stars, with more stars meaning the product is more water efficient. Some products may also be labelled with a 'Zero Star Rated' label, which indicates that the product is either not water efficient or does not meet basic performance requirements.