Water Security Update – 30 September 2025

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Candowie Reservoir level and customer demand

As of 30 September 2025, our primary water storage, Candowie Reservoir, is 48% full, compared to 68% at the same time last year. Water demand has increased slightly compared to the previous year; customer consumption to the end of September was 1,924 ML, compared to 1,859 ML in 2024.

 

Rainfall in the Candowie Catchment

Year-to-date rainfall (January–September) in the Candowie Catchment was 489 mm, which is significantly lower than both the five-year average of 722 mm and the 587 mm recorded over the same period last year.

While this week’s rainfall (32 mm) was higher than the same week in 2024 (13 mm), both September’s total (66.5 mm vs 87 mm) and the overall year-to-date figure highlight the drier conditions.

  • YTD rainfall (1 Jan to 30 September) 489 mm
  • This week’s rainfall = 32 mm – same time last year 13.2 mm
  • September Rainfall = 66.5 mm – September last year 87 mm

Key Messages

  • Permanent Water Saving Rules are a conservation measure in place across Victoria. These rules are a set of common-sense rules that are applied every day of the year to ensure Victorians use water efficiently.
  • We continue to monitor water resources carefully, and we’re actively considering options to manage demand in response to low rainfall and below-average inflows.
  • If we feel that water restrictions are necessary, we will make the decision before summer guided by expert advice and data, and only enact when necessary.
  • Westernport Water’s overall water supply is more than what’s stored in Candowie Reservoir. Our connection to Victoria’s Water Grid gives us access to diverse water supplies and makes us less vulnerable to dry conditions.
  • We have been able to lean on our connection to Victoria’s Water Grid to ensure storage levels continue to grow, giving us greater security and flexibility in meeting demand.
  • Westernport Water’s water supply is being supported by the ongoing delivery of 50 billion litres of desalinated water this year from the Victorian Desalination Plant.
  • The Victorian Desalination Plant plays a role, not only does it provide water security for Greater Melbourne, but also for connected communities in regional areas like the Bass Coast.
  • With more than two years of water supply available, we are well placed to meet customer demand for the year ahead.