July 24, 2026
The following public consultation is available to view via Engage Victoria and consultation closes 11:59pm, 23 August 2026.
Help shape the future management of water in Victoria’s Western Region
The Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy is a long-term water planning document required under the Water Act 1989, and is being coordinated by the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA).
The Victorian Government announced its development in July 2025 and it will form part of wider drought assistance measures in recognition of the recent drought and dry conditions impacting much of western Victoria.
According to DEECA, a new strategy provides an opportunity for the community, water sector agencies, Traditional Owners and stakeholders, such as farming and environmental groups to discuss and plan for the region’s water needs to support these values. It will provide updated policy directions and new actions following on from the 2011 Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy.
As Victoria’s independent peak body for recreational fishing, VRFish are representing recreational fishing interests in the development of the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy.
A Ministerially-appointed consultative committee consisting of representatives from water corporations, Traditional Owner groups and Catchment Management Authorities is overseeing the strategy’s development given the critical role of these organisations in its implementation.
Public consultation closes 11:59pm, 23 August 2026.
Drop in sessions
There are 8 events planned with 2 online and 6 in person drop in sessions across Western Victoria. They will provide an opportunity to learn more about the process and hear from you about water issues. An option to provide your submission in person is available at the in person drop in session.
| Date | Time | Session Information | Where |
| 29 July 2026 | 11 AM – 12 PM | Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy – Webinar Information Session #1 | Online |
| 29 July 2026 | 7PM – 8PM | Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy – Webinar Information Session #2 | Online |
| 2 August 2026 | 12PM – 5PM | Sheepvention – Hamilton | Hamilton Showgrounds – 58 Shakespeare St, Hamilton VIC 3300 |
| 3 August 2026 | 9AM – 11:30 AM | Drop in session – Portland | Wannon Water Office – 15 Townsend Street, Portland VIC 3305 |
| 3 August 2026 | 2PM – 4PM | Drop in session – Casterton | Casterton. Location TBC. |
| 4 August 2026 | 10AM – 12:30 PM | Drop in session – Edenhope | Edenhope and District Community Centre, 76 Elizabeth Street, Edenhope, VIC 3318 |
| 4 August 2026 | 12:30 PM – 3PM | Drop in session – Pomonal | Pomonal Hall, 3360 Ararat-Halls Gap Road, Pomonal, VIC 3381 |
| 5 August 2026 | 11AM – 3PM | Mallee Machinery Field Days – Speed | Mallee Machinery Field Day – 2574 Sunraysia Hwy, Speed VIC 3488 |
Above event details correct at time of publishing. View event links listed above to find out more information.
Have Your Say
As Victoria’s independent peak body for recreational fishing, VRFish are representing recreational fishing interests in the development of the Western Region Sustainable Water Strategy.
If you have any feedback to assist us representing your views, please drop us a line at [email protected].
