Value of Water

Melbourne has long enjoyed high quality drinking water which has helped it develop into a healthy and sustain, liveable and prosperous city. While Melbourne has historically been well served by its water supply arrangements, recently they came under increasing strain as a result of prolonged drought, record low inflows to reservoirs and rapid population growth. Water saving measures, both voluntary and mandatory; have helped the community through, but not without consequences. In recent years, water – or the lack of it – has constrained rather than enhanced Melbourne’s liveability.

With rains now increasing our water storages and restrictions easing, we currently have the opportunity to stop and reflect on what we’ve learned. The Minister for Water has asked for a comprehensive, statewide review of water restrictions and Permanent Water Saving Rules. We’re also looking at how we balance and manage our water needs through the development of a Water Supply & Demand Strategy that guides water investment over the long term. The end goal is to protect Melbourne’s liveability.

So what role does water play in improving Melbourne’s liveability? In order to answer this question we need to understand how you value water. We think water delivers value to the community by ensuring or improving health, sustainability, liveability and prosperity.