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About water in Australia

Changes in rainfall
& water systems

Water for cities
- State by State

Water for farmers

Water for the environment

References

Canberra, Australian Capital Territory

The Cotter River and Queanbeyan River catchments make up the main water supply sources for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Under predicted climate change, these catchments are expected to experience decreases in annual water runoff by up to 20% in 2030 and 50% by 2070 (Chiew et al 2003). With combined predicted population growth, the ACT is mostly to experience increasing stress on its water supply.

At current, the ACT's water storage is assessed as being at record low levels (Locke 2004). This is as the result of the States third year of drought, which has consequently left Canberra's three dams at 47.8% capacity (Locke 2004). Canberra residents have responded by decreasing their over all water consumption, however, further action will need to be taken to meet growing water demand and declined water resources.

Changes in rainfall & water systems: ACT