Tuesday, 18 November 2025

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Water) (12:15): In a changing climate water security is an increasingly important issue for our state. Our regions know this all too well, with drought impacting farmers and household water supply. In a landmark move to address northern Victoria’s future water challenges, I can report today that seven of our regional water corporations have united to officially launch the Northern Urban Water Accord. The accord spans almost two-thirds of Victoria, including Central Highlands, Coliban, Goulburn Valley, Goulburn–Murray, Grampians Wimmera Mallee, Lower Murray and North East Water. Collaborating across boundaries supports water corporations to work together on region-wide water security solutions that best serve their communities. This is about planning the next generation of projects that will shape water security across northern Victoria. This complements our water security plan by ensuring our regional and metro water corps are all focused on water security planning. We are also investing in water security through the latest round of integrated water management grants. Integrated water management projects support more recycled water and stormwater use, preserving our precious drinking water. And with a dedicated regional stream, we are ensuring drought-impacted regions have access to upgrades that preserve precious water supplies. Previously funded projects include a system to collect rainwater from rooftops in Warrnambool’s Albert Park sporting precinct to add to the city’s drinking water supplies. Our focus is ensuring Victorians have access to safe, reliable and high-quality water supply, because water is one of our most precious resources.