About the project

In 2020, the City of Greater Geelong completed and adopted a Framework Plan for the Growth Areas North and West of Geelong (Growth Areas).

The Growth Areas project is the largest urban growth project in regional Victoria and will welcome more than 110,000 new residents. The project is a key element of the City of Greater Geelong’s plan to address Geelong’s long-term population growth needs, as part of a clever and creative future.

The urban water cycle will play a key role in shaping sustainable communities in the Growth Areas.

In 2021 Barwon Water developed an Integrated Water Management (IWM) Plan for the Growth Areas in collaboration with project partners City of Greater Geelong, Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), Southern Rural Water and Traditional Owners.

Our IWM Plan will guide the efficient and effective use of the Growth Areas’ water systems and promote their long-term resilience and security in the face of a changing climate.

The Plan will establish an integrated water management system that upholds water as an enabler of clever and resilient neighbourhoods and local economies, healthier lifestyles and a thriving environment.

Delivering on the IWM Plan

As outlined in the Framework Plan, the City of Greater Geelong is currently preparing Precinct Structure Plans (PSPs) for the first two precincts within the Growth Areas:

• Creamery Road precinct (Western Geelong Growth Area)
• Elcho Road East precinct (Northern Geelong Growth Area)

Barwon Water is delivering multiple drinking water, recycled water and sewer projects to support the development of these precincts. We will share information about these projects once they begin their planning processes.

Barwon Water has now begun to plan for projects to service the Growth Areas:

• The North Western Recycled Water Centre
• Creamery Road Precinct

Click through to the individual Barwon Water project pages below to learn more about them.

Sustainable Water Network

As demand for water continues to rise due to population growth, our rainfall-dependent sources are declining. This means that our region will need to find more water to meet its growing needs.

The Sustainable Water Network is an innovative option that will enable Barwon Water to manufacture and move large volumes of recycled water across the region for fit-for-purpose use.

The Sustainable Water Network will support the Growth Areas North and West of Geelong by reducing demands on drinking water, and supporting investment in housing, agriculture, horticulture and industrial ventures.