VEWH plan sets regional priorities for 2026-27
Victoria is planning environmental water deliveries for a dry 2026-27, with low inflows forecast across rivers and wetlands.
On 30 June 2026, the Victorian Environmental Water Holder released the Seasonal Watering Plan 2026-27. It explains how environmental entitlements could be used under different climate scenarios across the state.
“Conditions in 2025-26 have generally been dry and the Bureau of Meteorology is predicting a higher chance of below-average rainfall and above-average minimum temperatures for all regions through spring 2026,” VEWH chief executive Dr Sarina Loo said.
In northern Victoria, managers expect to start the water year under a dry scenario. However, VEWH and waterway managers could change deliveries if forecasts or local conditions shift.
Western Victoria faces a tougher outlook after several dry years. At some sites, large storage drawdowns mean managers expect very dry or drought settings.
Central Victoria and Gippsland are more mixed. Meanwhile, the Melbourne supply system and West Gippsland storages are in better shape than many other areas, but they are still likely to begin 2026-27 under dry or drought scenarios.
The plan aims to build resilience during forecast dry periods. According to VEWH, managers will respond to rainfall, storage levels and local conditions as the season changes.
Traditional Owner watering actions
Traditional Owner groups are included in the 2026-27 plan with several proposed watering actions. One joint submission comes from DJAARA and North Central Catchment Management Authority for Dindilong Yaluk, the Coliban River.
Taungurung Land and Waters Council has proposed watering the Molesworth Billabongs complex off the Goulburn River. That action has strong community support and aims to provide refuge for critically endangered flat-headed galaxias.
In the Mallee, the First People of the Millewa-Mallee Aboriginal Corporation included actions for Neds Corner Central wetlands. Those flows would support habitat for birds, frogs and yabbies, while helping keep fringing black box trees healthy.
“With dry conditions expected to continue, we’re working closely with waterway managers and storage managers to make the best use of available environmental water and deliver it efficiently and effectively,” Dr Loo said.
VEWH said Traditional Owner leadership and knowledge continue to strengthen Victoria’s environmental watering programme. Dr Loo also said communities benefit when environmental objectives are met through healthier waterways for recreation, connection to nature and wellbeing.
