Reforming water sector governance

Key findings to inform the update of Victoria’s 30-year infrastructure strategy 

In this report, we look at how to make Victoria’s water supply more sustainable.  We identify reform opportunities across 3 broad areas:

• better use of existing infrastructure and efficient use of all water sources
• more integrated and adaptive planning processes including coordinating water, urban development and land use
• need for community involvement in water supply decision-making.

We present key findings from previous research into Victoria’s water sector. This includes extensive stakeholder and community consultation on important issues and reform opportunities. 

We also present 5 case studies to highlight how governance affects water planning and use.  

This report informs the 2021 update of Victoria’s 30-year infrastructure strategy. 

Key findings 

• We should consider the economic, health and environmental merits of any potential water source, including recycled water and stormwater.  
• Planning processes need to be more integrated and adaptive. This includes making better investment decisions, adjusting planning frameworks, and coordinating water, urban development and land use. 
• The community wants and needs to be more involved in deciding water supply options. We need to understand their preferences and improve water literacy.