Using Groundwater
Like surface water, groundwater is a key resource for consumptive use in Victoria. It is an important component of the water cycle and, like other water resources, is affected by drought and climate change.
The responsible management and use of groundwater is vital to ensuring the long term sustainability of Victoria’s water supplies.
All groundwater users should practice water conservation measures. If you rely on a groundwater supply for domestic requirements, such as watering the garden, you can reduce your impact by limiting the frequency of use, watering only in the early morning, and implementing other water wise gardening practices.
Groundwater on privately owned land may be accessed for domestic and stock purposes only. These domestic and stock rights are defined in the Water Act 1989. Individuals seeking access to groundwater on private land are required to apply to their rural water corporation for licences to access and extract groundwater. Bore construction must be undertaken by a licensed driller.
Access to groundwater for commercial or industrial purposes is only possible under strict licensing arrangements, administered by rural water corporations under delegation from the Minister for Water.