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Water infrastructure refers to a broad term for systems of water supply, treatment, storage, water resource management, flood prevention and hydropower. The term also includes water-based transportation systems such as canals. Examples include dams, wastewater treatment plants, water supply and sanitation systems. Reservoirs and dams are fundamental elements of water infrastructure. They are used for storing large volumes of water. Dams and reservoirs serve multiple purposes.

Water infrastructure is the foundation upon which our communities are built. It supports public health, drives economic growth, and protects the environment. However, maintaining this infrastructure requires ongoing investment and attention. In the years ahead, our water infrastructure will need to operate under warmer, drier conditions and meet the needs of a growing population.

Water infrastructure and supply are acutely vulnerable to climate change. Rainfall in Victoria is projected to decrease. A warmer, drier climate means less rainfall flowing from Victoria’s rivers and dams, putting more pressure on urban water supplies. How we use and conserve water will become more crucial in the future.

More extreme rainfall, movement and changes in groundwater and higher than average temperatures with lower average rainfall, will impact our water infrastructure. This will mean higher risks of water shortages and drainage and sewerage damage from stormwater flooding. More frequent and intense bushfires also risk damage to catchments and water storages.

Some current water infrastructure projects in Victoria include:

• North Yarra Main Sewer Rehabilitation
• Lonsdale Street Sewer Upgrade
• Elizabeth Street Sewer Upgrade
• The Western Irrigation Network
• East Grampians Rural Water Supply Project
• Macalister Irrigation District Modernisation Phase 2 Project
• Lower Murray Water - Sunraysia Water Efficiency Project

Key points about Victorian water infrastructure projects:

• Rural focus: Many recent projects are aimed at improving water access and efficiency in rural areas.
• Multiple water corporations: Victoria's water system is managed by various state-owned water corporations, including both urban and rural entities.
• Environmental considerations: Projects often include components aimed at water conservation and environmental sustainability.

The GEOCONSOL team has provided input to some of these water projects on behalf of their previous employers.