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About water in Australia

Changes in rainfall
& water systems
- State by State
- Murray-Darling Basin
- Macquarie River
- Hawkesbury-Nepean
- Other catchments

Water for cities

Water for farmers

Water for the environment

References

Victoria

Whilst a significant degree of uncertainty surrounds the likely impact of climate change on Victoria, future climate change scenarios highlight that a decrease in annual rainfall is most likely (Maheepala 2002). Supporting this forecast, the Bureau of Statistics states that Victoria is becoming progressively drier each year, receiving up to 3 mm less rainfall each year (ABS 2003).

Depending on the degree of greenhouse gasses in the atmosphere, by the year 2050, annual rainfall in most regions is likely to decrease by 9% or increase by 3%. By 2070, changes will range from a decrease by 25% and an increase by 9% (Passey 2003). Spring is expected to see the strongest decreases in most region with an expected -3% to -14% by 2070 (Passey 2003). Areas occupying the highest levels of uncertainty with rainfall events include northern Victoria in summer and autumn, along with parts of southern Victoria.

Overall, the combined consequences of increased evaporation and decreased rainfall is likely to bring about a decrease in soil moisture in most regions. In addition, daily rainfall events are expected to be more extreme, particularly in areas experiencing declined rainfall (Maheepala 2002).

Water for cities: Melbourne, Victoria