Infrastructure Victoria wants the state government to do more to reduce climate-related risks to water supplies. 

The Millennium drought pushed Victoria to employ a variety of new technologies and water sources to ensure supplies, including recycled water, stormwater and groundwater.

But climate studies suggest Victoria’s dams and rivers can expect less rainfall in coming years, increasing the risk of water shortages as well as stormwater flooding risks that cause drainage and sewerage damage.

Likewise, more frequent and intense bushfires increase the risk of ash and debris contaminating the water supply. Droughts are also predicted to be more intense across Australia.

So, Infrastructure Victoria says it is essential that the Victorian Government moves to limit the risk of climate change impacts on infrastructure and communities by taking further action to de-risk and build resilience into planning and decision-making.

The group has called on the state to undertake a contemporary and comprehensive assessment of climate risks and the consequences for infrastructure.

“It is timely that the Victorian Government looks at the role of desalination, stormwater and recycled water to help fill the gap when rain isn’t falling,” says Infrastructure Victoria Acting CEO Jonathan Spear.

“Recycled water and stormwater can become major water supply augmentation options and recycled water has more predictable quality and quantity than treated stormwater. 

“Considering all water supply options equally would ensure we provide communities with the most affordable, sustainable and efficient sources of water.

“That’s why we’ve recommended that the government address barriers to the safe use of purified recycled water for drinking. 

“This includes continuing community education to improve water literacy, commissioning studies into the safety and efficacy of using purified recycled drinking water and looking at better regulatory frameworks to manage health risks.

“We would also like to see clearer lines of responsibility for the management of our urban water systems and supply to support future investment decisions.

“The Victorian Government should also clearly allocate roles and responsibilities for urban water systems and major supply augmentation planning, recognising that ultimate responsibility rests with them,” Mr Spear said.