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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

Melbourne, Victoria

Under projected climate change, Melbourne is likely to experience significant reductions in its water supply. The CSIRO has predicted that under worst case scenarios, Melbourne city may lose up to 35% of water flowing into dams by 2050, and up to 20% under mid-range scenarios (2003). It was also found that the city's water resources will be unable to cope under mid to high climate changes (CSIRO 2003). Aside from climate change forecasts, another factor that will play a key role in the future security of Melbourne's water supply is its increasing population.

To cope with likely climate change scenario's, Melbourne will need to diversify its water supply and resources, by investing into non-traditional sources such as water recycling, desalinisation and groundwater. The Bracks Government has ruled out the possibility of another dam being built due to the associated high environmental risks (Fyfe 22/05/05).

At current, Victoria consumes 24% of Australia's total water use. In addition, 28 out of 32 surface water management areas and 19 out of 79 groundwater management units are classified as being highly or overdeveloped (EA 2005).

Changes in rainfall & water systems: Victoria