The Melbourne Geelong pipeline has reached a major milestone with a 40 million dollar upgrade now complete, boosting Geelong’s drinking water security during one of the driest periods recorded across central and western Victoria.
The upgrade increases pipeline capacity from 16 billion litres to 22 billion litres a year, enabling up to 60 per cent of Geelong’s peak demand to be supplied directly through the system.
The pipeline runs 59 kilometres underground, linking Melbourne’s network at Cowies Hill with storage at Lovely Banks. The latest works included modifications at two basins, extending the reach of the system to an additional 28,000 homes and businesses.
The Melbourne Geelong pipeline has played an important role in supporting the region through rapidly changing conditions, helping Geelong avoid restrictions this year as storage fell to 36 per cent of capacity, the lowest winter level since 2008.
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Why the Melbourne Geelong pipeline upgrade matters for water security
Minister for Water Gayle Tierney said the upgrade provides immediate and long-term benefits.
“The upgraded pipeline connection to Melbourne provides greater water security to the Geelong region, ensuring families have access to affordable, safe and secure drinking water supplies,” Tierney said.
She said continued investment is essential as conditions intensify.
“With our population growing and the climate getting drier, we are investing in the critical infrastructure needed to move water to where it is needed,” she said.
Geelong’s storages have faced sustained pressure, with the Victorian Government ordering 50 billion litres from the Victorian Desalination Plant earlier this year to stabilise supplies. The plant can supply up to a third of Melbourne’s annual demand and supports surrounding regions, including Geelong and parts of Gippsland, during extended dry periods.
How the Melbourne Geelong pipeline fits into the wider regional supply network
Member for Lara, Ella George, said high-quality water is now reaching more households.
“We are securing our water supply with this upgraded water pipeline, bringing high-quality water to families throughout Geelong,” she said.
Barwon Water Chair Peta Maddy said the pipeline is a critical part of the utility’s long-term supply strategy.
“The pipeline is part of a portfolio of sources that safeguards supply to customers and helps us continue to provide high-quality, affordable and secure services,” Maddy said.
The upgrade complements the Victorian Government’s Water Security Plan, released earlier this year, which examines how Victoria can maintain a reliable and affordable supply as the climate dries and demand increases. The plan highlights desalinated water, recycled water, stormwater harvesting, and efficiency programs as key contributors to long-term resilience. The Melbourne Geelong pipeline remains a central component of this strategy, providing a direct link between significant supply assets and one of Victoria’s fastest growing regions.