Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook – September quarterly update
24 September 2026
Melbourne’s water storages rose over winter but remain lower than the same time last year.
As of 1 September 2026, Melbourne's water storage levels were at 69.3%, up nearly 6% (106 billion litres) since 1 June 2026 following recent rainfall and slightly above average inflows for this time of year. More than a third of the increase came from desalinated water.
Despite this improvement, storages remain 3% (56 billion litres) lower than the same time last year with overall winter rainfall 22% below average.
Storages are now more than 20% lower than the same time two years ago, reflecting the impact of some of the driest conditions on record over the past two years.
Looking ahead, the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting below-average spring rainfall across Victoria, with El Niño conditions increasing the likelihood of drier conditions and lower inflows over coming months.
If dry conditions continue through spring, water restrictions are possible this upcoming summer.
To help bolster Melbourne’s water supplies, 150 billion litres of water was ordered from the Victorian Desalination Plant for the 2026/27 supply year and continues to be delivered into the water supply system.
Residential water use has fallen slightly, from 162 litres per person per day reported in the June update to around 159 litres per person per day over the past 12 months. This remains above Target 150, which encourages consumption of no more than 150 litres per person per day.
Yarra Valley Water Managing Director, Natalie Foeng, speaking on behalf of Melbourne’s water corporations, said everyone has a role to play in helping reduce pressure on Melbourne’s water supplies.
"While winter rainfall and desalinated water deliveries have provided a welcome boost to Melbourne's storages, we're still seeing the impact of some of the driest conditions in decades over the past two years, with storage levels remaining lower than this time last year," Ms Foeng said.
"Water from the Victorian Desalination Plant is now helping strengthen our water supplies, but it remains important that we all continue to use water efficiently.
“Simple actions like keeping showers to four minutes, fixing leaks and only running full loads in washing machines and dishwashers, can make a real difference.
“By working together, we can help conserve water and protect Melbourne’s water supplies for the future.” Melburnians are reminded to follow Victoria’s Permanent Water Saving Rules, which apply at all times:
Sprinklers and watering systems can only run between 6pm and 10am.
Hand-held hoses must be leak-free and fitted with a trigger nozzle.
Hard surfaces, such as driveways and decks, must not be hosed – use a broom instead.
Fountains and water features must recirculate water.
To further reduce household water use, the ‘Make Every Drop Count’ campaign encourages Melburnians to implement small changes at home to protect supplies. This includes brushing teeth with the tap off, running full dishwashers, using the half flush on toilets and mulching garden beds.
Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook and quarterly updates are jointly prepared by Greater Western Water, Melbourne Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water, in partnership with the Victorian Government.
Read Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook Update for September 2026:
