Canberra's reusable resource

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The ACT draws its water supply from two catchments: the Cotter and Googong. Drinking water is supplied from four reservoirs. We benefit from the ability to use water from either of these two catchments, we can also balance these dams by transferring water from the Cotter into the Googong reservoir. Some of the water we use is recycled for irrigation purposes through facilities in Fyshwick, Lyneham and Holt.

Detailed studies were done in 2004/05 of the options to secure water supply to the growing ACT region. Options included a scheme that would purify our used water so it can be added to the Cotter catchment to supplement our supply. Such a scheme would not significantly rely on rainfall and could help us further diversify our water sources.

Keep the sources flowing

Almost half of the water used by Canberrans is treated to a high standard at the Lower Molonglo Water Quality Control Centre (LMWQCC) before its returned to the Molonglo River. The Water Purification Scheme would involve capturing a proportion of this water and purifying it through a new Water Purification Plant using well-proven advanced technology.