Melbourne's Water Outlook
Each year, Melbourne’s 4 metropolitan water corporations, Melbourne Water, Greater Western Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water jointly assess current storage levels, expected inflows and demand and outline how Melbourne’s water supplies will be managed through Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook.
During extended dry conditions, we also provide quarterly updates to keep customers and communities informed of current storage levels and supply outlook.
Quarterly water outlook update – March 2026
Data as at 1 March 2026
- Melbourne’s storages are currently at 69.6%.
- Storages declined by 5.6% (102 billion litres) between 1 December 2025 and 1 March 2026.
- Storages are 11.2% (203.8 billion litres) lower than the same time last year, reflecting dry conditions, record-low inflows and higher water use.
- If dry conditions continue and water use remains high through 2026, leading to further storage decline, water restrictions may be possible over summer 2026/27.
This update reflects current storage levels and recent conditions. We will continue to provide quarterly updates throughout the year.
Read Melbourne's Annual Water Outlook - Quartlery Update March 2026 (Word, 779KB)
Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook provides a detailed assessment of Melbourne’s water storages, demand trends and supply outlook for the year ahead.
Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook 2026 shows water storages have dropped by 13.2% over the past year following record-low rainfall and higher water use. Storages remain secure for now, thanks to desalinated water supporting the system – but it’s time for all of us to make every drop count.
Melbourne’s Annual Water Outlook is jointly prepared by Melbourne Water, Greater Western Water, South East Water and Yarra Valley Water.
Melbourne's Water Outlook 2026 [accessible] (PDF, 6.6 MB)
Melbourne's Water Outlook 2026 [accessible] (Word, 4.5 MB)
Related information
Permanent Water Saving Rules
These rules apply at all times across Melbourne and help us use water efficiently every day.
View the Permanent Water Saving Rules.
Water Restriction By-law
The Water Restriction By-law outlines how water use may be managed if restrictions are introduced.
Drought Preparedness Plan
This plan explains how Melbourne’s water corporations prepare for and respond to extended dry conditions.
Current storage levels
See the latest reservoir storage levels and system updates for Melbourne.
View current storage levels.