The impacts of climate change, and the resulting shift in precipitation patterns and reliability, requires a broader investigation of supply options that are less climate-dependent.
All water supply options must be available for consideration and assessed equally, based on their full merits for meeting this country's long-term needs. Where possible, supply managers should aim to boost the resilience of their supply network and deliver better outcomes for communities by integrating multiple options into the network.
Currently, 82% of Australia's urban water supply is from surface water, a source highly dependent on rainfall.28 As Figure 6.2 shows, rainfall patterns across the country are becoming increasingly unreliable. It is no longer feasible to expect rain to fall within local catchment boundaries and replenish surface water storage facilities.29
It is essential to diversify Australia's water supply portfolio. This will include embracing alternative water supply sources such as recycled water and stormwater harvesting.