The community is encouraged to help inform how Barwon Water responds to the challenges and opportunities of the next 15 years.

Barwon Water is seeking feedback as it prepares to develop its next long-term blueprints – Strategy 2040, Urban Water Strategy 2027, and Price Submission 2028-2033.

Ideas are being received via an online survey, with the inputs to shape the creation of draft plans for the region’s regenerative water future.

Managing Director Shaun Cumming said while the organisation continued to deliver on its 2030 priorities, longer-term planning was critical to the ongoing provision of sustainable, affordable and innovative services that supported thriving communities.

“Over the past decade we have focussed on leveraging the value of our services to enhance the economic, social, cultural and environmental prosperity of the Barwon region,” he said.

“The core challenges we’re facing – such as rapid population growth and climate variability – have been the catalyst for our progress and evolution as an organisation.

“We want to keep adapting, find new solutions and maximise the value of our precious resources, so we can help the region grow sustainably, and these strategies are key to achieving this outcome.”

All Victorian water corporations, including Barwon Water, are required to develop and submit Price Submissions to the Essential Services Commission.

The Price Submission outlines service standards, infrastructure and operational investments, and customer prices over a five-year period (2028 – 2033).

Its priorities and actions will be incorporated into Strategy 2040, which would replace the organisation’s existing guiding vision, Strategy 2030.

The Urban Water Strategy 2027 takes a longer-term view and will outline a 50-year plan to manage demand for, and ensure sufficient supplies of, urban water.

Mr Cumming said Barwon Water was continually listening and learning from its various communities.

“We know we get better outcomes when we work in partnership with customers, community and Traditional Owners,” he said.

“Ensuring our key partners are at the heart of our continued transition will help us further contribute to the region’s prosperity.”

Barwon Water is preparing for continued population growth, increasing climate volatility and water scarcity, growing equity divides, technological advancement and evolving customer expectations.