Climate & water
Effects of climate change
Climate change is a global issue with a very real local impact. The biggest challenge we continue to face is declining streamflow into our dams and irregular rainfall throughout WA.
How Perth's water sources have changed over time
Climate change has dramatically affected where we get our water from. We can no longer rely on the rain to meet our water needs.
As we continue to feel the impacts of climate change, we have adapted. We are working with government, partnering with businesses and supporting the community to take action on climate changes.
Streamflow & rainfall
Declining rainfall is affecting the amount of rainfall runoff (streamflow) into our dams. Stay up to date with streamflow and rainfall data and find out how our water use is tracking.
Perth’s winter rainfall is predicted to decrease by up to 15% by 2030.
Updated: Wednesday, 24 February 2021
Learn more about how this data is updated
798 ML
Used yesterday
To 9am
0.00
mm
May total
May average*
32.20
mm
88.70
mm
Current
42.5%
268 GL
Last year
45%
284 GL
Change
5.7%
-16.2 GL
* Average monthly rainfall (for the period 1876 - 2016).
Dam volumes, rainfall and water use data is updated every working day, streamflow is updated weekly.
WA & climate change
VIEW ALL ARTICLESThe effects of climate change are being felt across all of Western Australia in several ways. Find out how the environment around you and your community is being impacted.
Perth a growing city with declining rainfall – adapting to the new normal
Meet our environmental scientist Vanessa Moscovis and learn how her team has been planning climate-resilient water sources to secure Perth’s future.
Every drop of wastewater recycled at Margaret River facility
Margaret River Wastewater Treatment Plant services the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River. Recent upgrades have doubled the plant’s capacity to 3 million litres of wastewater per day to accommodate for rising population.
Planting for the future – helping the Carnaby’s cockatoo soar to new heights
Water Corporation is rehabilitating feeding grounds for the critically endangered Carnaby’s black cockatoo. Revegetation also helps to protect and recharge the Gnangara groundwater system.
Denmark is drying out – How this town is tackling climate change
Denmark is a town that has experienced climate change first hand. In response, the local community has saved 32 million litres of water during 2020.
Saving water is all in a day’s work for our waterwise platinum winners
Ocean Keys Shopping Centre and Perth Zoo have both been awarded 2020 Platinum Waterwise Business of the Year. Both businesses have shown an outstanding commitment to improving their water efficiency.
What we’re doing
Adapting our water sources
We have had to adapt to the impacts of climate change in order to protect our unique WA lifestyle. Through the development of new water sources, we have been able to climate-proof the state.
Groundwater
We are recharging groundwater sources with treated wastewater to reduce our reliance on rainfall. Currently, groundwater replenishment makes up 2% of our Integrated Water Supply Scheme.
Desalination
Is a water source that doesn’t depend on rain. Since 2006 desalinated seawater has helped supply Perth with drinking water – today it makes up almost 45%.
Wastewater
Recycled wastewater is used to irrigate public open spaces and in industry operations. Over the last 10 years we have increased the total volume of recycled water by almost 70% across WA.
Sustainability & environment
We recognise the impact of our operations and remain fully committed to reducing our environmental footprint.
Reusing biosolids
We are re-purposing by-products from the wastewater treatment process and supplying the community with natural fertiliser.
Investing in sustainability
Our partnerships with Greenbatch and Loop upcycling are helping to inspire a sustainable community.
Educating future generations
For over 20 years, we have been working with schools to empower future generations to become sustainability ambassadors.
What you can do to help
One way we can work together as a community to take action on climate change is saving water, which also saves energy.
Saving water in the garden
We use over 40% of our water in the garden. Find out how to reduce your water use outdoors while keeping your garden looking great.
Saving water in the bathroom
Bathrooms use the most water inside the household. Find out what you can do to reduce the water you use.
Saving water in the kitchen & laundry
There are many ways that you can save water in your kitchen and laundry, find out what you can do.
Commitment to innovation
We recognise the impact of our operations and remain fully committed to reducing our environmental footprint.
Drainage for liveability
We’re working with the community to transform stormwater drains into usable community green spaces.
Environment
We aim to provide safe and reliable water services to our customers, which are affordable and environmentally sound for future generations.
Water research & innovation
We are investigating new wastewater treatment and resource recovery technologies.