Stormwater reuse in the Bunyip Basin

South East Water commissioned Alluvium to investigate the reuse potential of stormwater within the Bunyip Basin as a component of a broader sustainable water strategy. This investigation was designed to advance the discussion on stormwater reuse beyond the broad rules in the Central Region Sustainable Water Strategy (CRSWS).

It is estimated that around 400 GL of stormwater is generated annually across Melbourne (Melbourne Water, 2010). This water can provide a source of alternative water to both reduce its impact on the environment and reduce the consumption of potable water. This alternative supply of water can service private and public requirements, including community assets such as recreation ovals and parks which otherwise could not be watered under water restrictions.

We identified four influencing factors that impact on the prioritisation of catchments for stormwater reuse. These include:

• protection of high value environmental values in the saline receiving environment,
• where the greatest river health benefits can be attained,
• where the greatest resource is, and
• where the greatest opportunity for effective reuse exists.

The report provided presents opportunities, constraints and priorities for implementation of stormwater reuse for South East Water.