Community Input to Shape Lower Great Southern Water Plan
Water Minister Don Punch has announced a new community consultation group will be established to help inform the new drinking water source for the Lower Great Southern, as parts of the region suffer their lowest recorded rainfall for two consecutive years [1] .
A new source is required by 2030 to respond to the growing pressure on existing sources and meet increased demand to support population and economic growth. Seawater desalination is likely to be part of the solution with a new groundwater source in the Albany area also under investigation.
The new source will also help support key developments in Albany, including planned new housing at the Spencer Park mixed-use development and in McKail North.
Water Corporation is currently seeking expressions of interest from Albany residents to join the independently-facilitated group and provide feedback on potential desalination sites. This will help inform how the different options could be delivered in the required timeframe.
The move is part of ongoing planning to bolster long-term water security in the Lower Great Southern, which is bearing the brunt of climate change and its impacts on rainfall.
Winter rainfall in the region has already decreased 13 per cent since 1968, with modelling predicting a further 18 per cent reduction by 2050. This will mean less water to replenish underground aquifers – with groundwater supplying around 90 per cent of the region’s drinking water – and dams and river sources.
In January, the Cook Government ruled out any potential desalination infrastructure within King George Sound in Albany, however, desalination options will be considered at alternative locations due to increasing constraints on groundwater sources.
For more information on the community consultation group, including how to apply, visit www.watercorporation.com.au/LGSnewsource
As stated by Water Minister Don Punch:
“Climate change is having an unprecedented impact on Albany and the Great Southern. The severe rainfall shortages in the last two years – part of the long-term declining trend – underline why we need a new, climate-resilient water source for the region.
“Water Corporation’s new community consultation group in Albany will provide valuable feedback during the next stage of its investigations, helping ensure community attitudes, priorities and concerns are understood and considered.
“While a new groundwater source currently remains an option, seawater desalination – as a proven, sustainable and reliable water source – will likely need to form part of the region’s longer-term water supply.
“Representing your community on this vital project is a unique opportunity to help shape the water future for the region.”
As stated by Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby:
“I urge all residents of the Lower Great Southern to have their say on the next major water source for the region.
A secure water supply is essential to help us grow a liveable region with a diverse and innovative economy.
“Interested residents are also encouraged to apply for the new community consultation group with a key focus on sharing their views on potential locations for a desalination plant.”
[1] Bureau of Meteorology drought report (4 April 2025) for period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025
https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook Labor Government/Community-feedback-to-assist-in-shaping-Lower-Great-Southern