Efforts are underway to ensure a reliable drinking water supply for Melbourne and Geelong amid ongoing dry conditions. An order for 50 gigalitres of water has been placed from the Victorian Desalination Plant, following expert advice considering current water storage levels, future demand, and climate forecasts.
Water storage in Geelong recently dropped to a six-year low of 42.2 percent, while Melbourne’s water storages have declined to 78.1 percent, down from 91.5 percent at the same time last year—a reduction of approximately 230 billion litres. This drop is attributed to below-average rainfall over the past 12 months.
Population growth in Melbourne, which increased by 140,000 last year, has added pressure on water supplies. The city uses between 50 to 70 gigalitres more water annually than what rainfall captures in reservoirs.
Ordering desalinated water is a routine annual decision based on weather conditions and water authority advice. These orders help maintain water storage levels and provide a buffer against severe drought. The Victorian Desalination Plant can supply up to one-third of Melbourne’s annual water needs and also supports regions such as South Gippsland and Geelong.
The plant has already produced 455 billion litres of fresh drinking water for Melbourne and surrounding areas. Despite the increased use of desalinated water, household water bills in Melbourne remain among the lowest in Australia.
In addition to desalinated water, recycled water, stormwater harvesting, and water efficiency programs play vital roles in securing the region’s water supply and controlling water costs.