Made Possible by Water: document outlining WA's water future
- Made Possible by Water sets clear direction for managing WA's water in a drying climate
- Major investments in desalination, recycling, and infrastructure to support communities and economic growth
- Collaborative approach across government, utilities, and industry to ensure safe, reliable, and climate-resilient water supplies
A Cook Government document designed to kick‑start an important State‑wide conversation about how Western Australia secures its long‑term water future in a drying climate has been launched.
Made Possible by Water brings together the expertise of the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, Water Corporation, Aqwest - Bunbury Water, and Busselton Water, demonstrating a unified commitment to responsible water management as Western Australia continues to grow and the climate becomes drier.
Western Australia is experiencing some of the most significant water pressures anywhere in the world, with South West rainfall declining by around 20 per cent since the 1970s and streamflows to dams falling by up to 80 per cent. At the same time, demand from households, agriculture, mining, and new industries continues to increase.
In response, the Cook Government has already taken major steps to adapt to a changing climate, investing heavily in desalination, groundwater replenishment, recycling, and major upgrades across metropolitan and regional water infrastructure. Desalination now supplies roughly half of Perth's drinking water, with further investment underway to expand climate‑resilient sources.
Made Possible by Water sets out key priorities to secure water for generations to come, including expanding climate‑resilient infrastructure, strengthening water‑efficiency programs, increasing recycling and alternative sources, and working closely with Aboriginal communities, regional utilities, industry, and local governments.
Click here to read the document.
Comments attributed to Water and Climate Resilience Minister Don Punch:
"Western Australia is undergoing a significant water transition as the climate continues to dry, and the Cook Government's sustained investments in desalination, recycling, and groundwater replenishment are ensuring the State remains ahead of emerging pressures. Made Possible by Water initiates an important community‑wide discussion on safeguarding our long‑term water security.
"With declining rainfall and sharply reduced dam inflows, Western Australia is contending with some of the most challenging water conditions globally. The government's decisive measures are strengthening the State's resilience while supporting ongoing economic development.
"Made Possible by Water outlines the path forward, emphasising the need for continued investment in climate‑resilient infrastructure, the expansion of water recycling, and a long‑term, constructive dialogue with the community to secure water resources for generations to come."
Comments attributed to Department of Water and Environmental Regulation director general Alistair Jones:
"Made Possible by Water reinforces our commitment to robust regulation, strong partnerships, and evidence‑based planning to secure the State's water future."
Comments attributed to Water Corporation CEO Pat Donovan:
"WA leads the world in climate independent water sources, and Made Possible by Water sets a clear path for sustainably managing this essential resource to support thriving communities, businesses and industries for generations."
Comments attributed to Busselton Water CEO David Hughes-Owen:
"Made Possible by Water reinforces the need for a shared approach to our State's water future. Busselton Water is working with the community and investing in the infrastructure and technology needed to secure long‑term water supplies."
Comments attributed to Aqwest - Bunbury Water CEO Gary Hallsworth:
"As the South West continues to feel the impacts of climate change, Made Possible by Water reinforces how collaboration, innovation and careful planning are securing our water future."