Melbourne's Water Outlook

Melbourne’s water storages and future supply are carefully monitored throughout the year.

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.

Latest update

Quarterly water outlook update – June 2026

Data as at 1 June 2026

• Melbourne's storages are currently at 63.4%.
• Storages declined by 6.1% (111 billion litres) between 1 March and 1 June 2026.
• Storages are 9.5% (172.1 billion litres) lower than the same time last year and 24% (around 432 billion litres) lower than 2 years ago, reflecting continued dry conditions, record-low inflows and higher water use.
• To support Melbourne's water security, 150 billion litres of water has been ordered from the Victorian Desalination Plant for the 2026–27 supply year and is currently being delivered into the system.
• If dry conditions continue through 2026, water restrictions may be possible over summer 2026/27. Permanent Water Saving Rules continue to apply.

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 - Quarterly Update June 2026 (Word, 753KB)

Previous updates

Melbourne's Annual Water Outlook

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)