Working with local government to reduce water use

Local government is often a significant water user, irrigating parks, sporting fields, public gardens and other open spaces, and using water for other council operations. As the local planning authority, local government is in a unique position to shape public attitude and behaviour regarding water conservation and to set standards for water conservation in new developments.

Local governments across the state were supported by State government and water corporations in the preparation of Sustainable Water Use Plans. A Sustainable Water Use Plan is a valuable water management and conservation tool. It identifies  where council uses water, how much water is used and it  identifies actions for council to reduce their water consumption.

The Plans identify projects that may increase recycling or use of stormwater. These projects may be eligible for funding under other Our Water Our Future initiatives such as the Stormwater and Urban Recycling Fund and the Smart Water Fund.

Many councils received funding to assist them to maintain sporting grounds during periods of restrictions through programs such as the Drought relief for Community Sport and Recreation Program 2007 and 2008.

Councils that have sites that consume more than 10ML per annum are also required to completed a site specific 'Water Management Action Plan' (waterMAP). WaterMAPs are a mandatory requirement under Victoria's Permanent Water Saving Plans. To minimise overlap between waterMAP and Sustainable Water Use Plans requirements, the council can work with their local water corporation to align the two plans.