Coliban Water has today announced that the allocation for the 2026/27 rural irrigation season will increase to 100% for all rural licensed customers.
Coliban Water Executive Manager Strategy, Adam Crameri, said the increase reflects the region’s much improved water resource position since the opening allocation was set at 60% on 1 July.
“The rural allocation is determined on the available water resources and in accordance with our drought response planning,” Mr Crameri said. “Pleasingly, in recent weeks we’ve had a lot of rainfall across our already wet catchments, which has translated into significant inflows into our storages near Kyneton.”
Coliban Water’s storages are currently sitting at 100% capacity, or about 70 gigalitres.
“While our storages are in a good position, and it’s now unlikely we’ll require any water restrictions during the 2026/27 summer season, it is important to note that the Bureau of Meteorology is forecasting below average rainfall and above average temperatures for the coming months,” said Mr Crameri.
The Bureau of Meteorology recently declared an El Niño active. Historically, El Niño events have led to some of Australia’s hottest and driest weather on record.
“We will continue to monitor our water position closely over the coming months and actively manage our water holdings across the region to meet customer demand,” said Mr Crameri. “As always, we encourage customers to use water wisely.”
Coliban Water’s rural season typically runs from late October until early May, with water delivered through a rostered ordering system or based on demand.
Last season 29% of rural water licences in the Coliban Water service region were not used. Customers in this position should consider making their unused licence volumes available for temporary transfer, which will enable other customers to purchase larger water allocations.
Customers wishing to arrange a temporary transfer can contact Coliban Water on 1300 363 200 or visit coliban.com.au/rural