A warmer-than-average autumn has led to an eight per cent drop in water storage levels across Greater Melbourne since the end of summer, with current levels sitting at 73 per cent, down 14 per cent from the end of autumn 2024.
This marks the most significant decline for the start of the year in nearly three decades, with storage levels recording their sharpest fall since 1998 during the Millennium Drought.
New analysis from the Bureau of Meteorology confirms that Victoria has experienced prolonged dry conditions, with the warmest autumn on record, followed by rainfall expected to be within the typical winter range for much of the state. Across the autumn months, an average of 143.3 mm of rain fell over Melbourne Water’s four major harvesting catchments – Maroondah, O’Shannassy, Thomson and Upper Yarra – a figure 34.8 per cent below the 30-year average. In comparison, 181.7 mm fell across these catchments during the autumn of 2024.
This reduced rainfall saw autumn stream flow into the harvesting catchments at 50 per cent of the 30-year average.
Despite falling storage levels, 50 billion litres of desalinated water will soon begin to be transferred to Cardinia Reservoir, helping to stabilise the supply and prevent severe water restrictions.
“Desalinated water is expected to begin flowing into the system in the coming weeks, supporting Melbourne’s water security,” said Melbourne Water Executive General Manager, Service Futures, Chris Brace. “However, it’s vital that all Victorians continue to use water wisely.”
Victoria’s Permanent Water Saving Rules remain in place year-round to encourage conservation efforts. Simple actions, including shortening showers, turning off taps while brushing teeth, and using a broom instead of a hose for outdoor cleaning, can significantly reduce unnecessary water consumption.
Water use in Melbourne continues to rise, with 1,403 million litres consumed per day during the autumn months, a 5.7 per cent increase compared to the same period last year, equating to 77 million litres more per day than in 2024.
To encourage efficient water use, the Target 150 initiative encourages individuals to limit their daily water consumption to 150 litres per person. More information on managing household water use can be found in quarterly bills and online via Melbourne Water’s water conservation resources.
“Melbournians have a strong track record of saving water, but we can’t afford to become complacent,” said Brace. “As our city grows, sustainable water use will help protect Melbourne’s liveability, ensuring it remains an exceptional place to live, now and for generations to come.”
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