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The purpose of the urban water strategies and drought preparedness plans

Water is central to the health and well-being of all Victorians. It also powers our industries and the economy, underpins our quality of life and supports our natural environment.

However, water is vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, climate variability and extreme weather. While our changing population and economy mean, it will become more challenging to balance the economy, environmental, cultural and social values of water.

We need to make sure our water resources can meet the future needs of our economy and changing population.

Urban Water Strategies (UWS) are the key planning tool in delivering sustainable water for our cities and towns now and into the future. These strategies aim to support resilient and liveable communities while balancing social, environmental and economic costs and benefits across the water cycle.

UWS help us decide what we will need to do over the next 50 years to make sure the water and sewerage services in our cities and towns are prepared for changes in population and our changing climate.

Drought Preparedness Plans (DPP), incorporated into these strategies, explain how we will prepare for and manage water during drought or other temporary shortage events.

Victoria’s urban water corporations deliver UWS in their service areas under their Statement of Obligations. The strategies are updated every 5 years. Urban Water Strategies were most recently completed in 2022 and will be due for renewal in 2027

DEECA, on behalf of the Minister for Water, has issued guidelines for the development of UWS.

Guidelines for the development of urban water strategies

Page last updated: 14/01/26