Dry weather brings restrictions into play

Feb 13, 2025

Within the Goulburn and Murray river basins, there are more than 3000 G-MW customers who take water from unregulated waterways.

As the dry weather continues, Goulburn-Murray Water is encouraging its diversions customers who are on unregulated waterways to stay up to date with the latest restrictions on how much water they can take.

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Unregulated waterways are creeks, rivers and streams that rely on natural stream flows rather than releases from G-MW-managed storages.

Within the Goulburn and Murray river basins managed by G-MW, there are more than 3000 G-MW customers who take water from these waterways.

The flows in these unregulated streams, creeks and rivers are closely monitored by G-MW.

If they drop to a defined trigger levels, restrictions are implemented to meet essential domestic and stock needs and maintain the health of the waterway.

G-MW diversions groundwater and streams manager Peter Clydesdale said recent conditions meant several of these waterways were now either on or facing restrictions.

“With the recent dry weather, we are seeing reduced flows in many of the streams, creeks and rivers in our region,” he said.

“There are restrictions in place for several waterways in our region, and in the coming weeks it is likely restrictions will be introduced for several more.”

There are five stages of restrictions G-MW applies to its streams, creeks and rivers.

The first four limit people to taking a certain percentage of their water entitlement every 10 days, the fifth only allows people to take water for domestic and stock purposes.

Mr Clydesdale said it was important that diverters remain aware of any potential changes to restrictions.

“Historically, it is quite common for there to be restrictions during this time of year,” he said.

“However, before 2024, we had a few consecutive wet years, which means some customers are facing restrictions for the first time in years.

“It is therefore a good time for customers to familiarise themselves with the rules that are in place around restrictions, and get in touch with us if they have any questions.”

Customers are notified if restrictions are implemented in their area.

For more information about restrictions and to view a list of the current restrictions, go to: https://www.g-mwater.com.au/rosters-and-restrictions

Customers with any questions can also phone G-MW on 1800 013 357 and ask to speak to their diversions inspector.