The inquiry terms of reference were framed to ensure that the structure of the retail water industry was able to deliver cost effective water supply and sewerage services and meet a range of social service obligations.

Stormwater Victoria’s submission focused on the important role that Stormwater had to play in providing a supplementary source of water while also providing a multitude of environmental and aesthetic benefits. It highlighted that the current industry structure did not support full integration of Stormwater with water supply and sewerage disposal.

Stormwater Victoria Submisison

We were invited to give evidence to the Inqury at its October hearing in Parliment house.  Our presentation focussed on the integrated benefits of stormwater management and the fact that runoff from urban catchments is more reliable than forested catchments (which are affected by drying soils due to a warming climate).

Stormwater Victoria Presentation to Inquiry

Following the presentation the Inquiry requested additional information on specific examples of successful stormwater harvesting projects and the potential to harvest water from developed catchments.

Stormwater Victoria Follow Up Submission

Amongst the Commission’s findings were recommendations to review the existing water framework to allow Stormwater to be considered alongside other water supply sources.

The Inquiry findings can be obtained from the ENRC website

http://www.parliament.vic.gov.au/enrc/inquiries/water/report/report.html

Specific findings relating to stormwater and rainwater can be downloaded below

ENRC Findings Stormwater and Rainwater