Presenting the best and latest on sustainable urban water management.

As the pressure on our water supply increases we need to find innovative ways to manage our water resources.

New approaches to water management recommend:

  • integrating water harvesting, water efficiency measures and stormwater treatment into urban design
  • Promotion of a 'fit for purpose' approach utilising stormwater and reused and recycled water which reduces pressure on drinking water supplies.

To help you achieve real change in your urban environment, our website helps you:

  • find useful training courses, tours and events
  • find useful contacts for more information and advice,
  • access and contribute publications and presentations through our info resource library,
  • promote your own events.

In October 2006, a significant milestone was passed with the introduction of Clause 56.07 of the Victoria Planning provisions. This is the first regulation that has required inclusion of integrated water management, starting in residential subdivision.

Melbourne Water recognised the importance of this shift and the need to provide advice to council staff on these regulations, and funded the Senior Stormwater Policy Advisor (SSPA) position.

Since February 2007 the SSPA has provided assistance to 38 Melbourne metropolitan and fringe councils through face-to-face sessions, phone and email. Through this contact the SPPA:

  • Clarifies policy requirements
  • Builds technical skills in water sensitive urban design
  • Assists in resolving issues around assessing subdivision applications
  • Organises forums and facilitates local government support networks
  • Manages practical strategic projects such as the development of 'Water Sensitive Urban Design Guidelines for Regional Councils'.

Please call 03 9235 2108 to speak to Andrew Marshall, Melbourne Water's Senior Stormwater Policy Advisor. A policy advisor who will assist councils in the regional areas of Victoria is the process of being appointed. In the meantime if you are from regional Victoria and require advice, please call Kelly McDonough on 9235 5335.