Data centres’ water use reined in, but Melbourne’s ‘second’ river still thirsty

MEDIA RELEASE 23 September 2026

• Protecting drinking water the responsible thing to do
• Maribyrnong River one of the most flow-stressed in the state
• Government must accelerate environmental water for the Maribyrnong catchment

The Carroll government’s Sustainable Data Centre Action Plan, released yesterday, requires new data centres to use recycled water.

The government’s plan shows it is listening to the concerns of Victorians about data centres, but it is unclear when the new rules will come into play.

“Requiring data centres to use recycled water ‘as soon as possible’ leaves some uncertainty for proponents and for communities—but critically also for the Maribyrnong River, which has already waited far too long for a fair share of flow,” says Dr Nicole Kowalcyzk, Co-Executive Officer for the Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association.

Welcoming the government’s plan, Dr Kowalcyzk, says: “This is a gamechanger for Victoria’s water security and paves the way for safeguarding much needed water for the environment.”

Smart investment now for the Maribyrnong will deliver a fair share of water for the river—and a healthier future for Melbourne’s growing west.

Co-Executive Director Dr Angela Clarke says: “Acting now for the river is fair, smart and responsible.”

“This plan shows the government is listening, and has heard the concerns of Victorians. Timely action means Victoria is leading the way. Now, creating a legal environmental water entitlement for the Maribyrnong, and meeting the river’s baseflow needs, will really deliver for the river,” says Dr Clarke.