With its striking landscapes, gold rush heritage and Indigenous history, the Goldfields are a truly unique part of the Australian outback. 

The Goldfields and Agricultural region is expected to face hotter conditions, greater evaporation and more unpredictable weather. These changes increase the risk of bushfires and bring new challenges for communities. While some areas may experience heavier rainfall, this can lead to issues like soil erosion and damage to roads and infrastructure. 

As temperatures and carbon dioxide levels rise, the mix of plants and grasses across the landscape will shift. Warmer days and nights will drive higher evaporation, putting extra pressure on water supplies. Rainfall overall is likely to decline but when it does occur, it may be more intense. This creates further strain on land and infrastructure. 

Fire risk will grow as conditions become hotter and drier, though severity will still depend on fuel loads, which are influenced by rainfall. While this may be challenging, we’re continuing to support communities with access to safe and secure drinking water. 

Most towns in the Goldfields and Agricultural Region (GAR) are supplied through the Goldfields and Agricultural Water Supply Scheme (GAWSS) via the Kalgoorlie Pipeline, which is connected to the Integrated Water Supply Scheme (IWSS) which uses a mix of water sources including dams, groundwater and desalination closer to the West Coast. Meanwhile, Laverton, Leonora, and Wiluna are supported by local groundwater sources, helping ensure all towns have access to safe and secure drinking water.