Water For Our Future

Climate change is having a direct impact on the region’s water security, with lower rainfall and a hotter, drier climate.

Since 1997, average inflows have dropped between 30-60% compared with the long-term average. Barwon Water modelling shows by 2029 demand could exceed supply.

The Water for our Future Strategy  identifies how water in our region will be sourced over the next 50 years, and comprises 25 actions over the next five years that will save water, source new water, reuse water and return water to the environment.

To ensure water remains affordable and accessible, significant investment in new infrastructure and agency coordination is needed to secure potable supplies and reduce environmental impacts

Integrated Water Management (IWM)

This is a coordinated approach by local and regional agencies with responsibility for managing the water cycle, including stormwater, drinking and wastewater, which will drive new economies and build water resource resilience.

A landmark IWM Plan will be implemented in the North West Geelong Growth Area, the largest greenfield planning project in regional Victoria which will house more than 110,000 new residents.

Recycled water

The increased use of recycled water for non-drinking purposes on the Bellarine Peninsula will help maintain its unique, high-quality rural landscapes. It will support increased agricultural production, economic growth and regional prosperity.

An opportunity exists to provide recycled water to the Thompson Valley and Surf Coast hinterland for agriculture, horticulture, viticulture and tourism development, including filling the former Anglesea coal mine.

Water efficiency

The Birregurra Sustainable Communities-Water Project saved more than 11 million litres of water through leak detection and behaviour change. The project could be replicated across the region and Victoria.

What G21 needs

• Support to provide a coordinated approach to Integrated Water Management across G21 region.
• Support for a multi-agency approach to construction of the Batesford Quarry Lake.
• Support for a business case investigating the use of recycled water in the Thompson Valley and Surf Coast hinterland.
• Support to expand Sustainable Communities-Water Project to other towns across the G21 region.

A commitment to embed GROW training, employment and procurement principles in all government projects within the region.