As we celebrate National Water Week, we’re highlighting some really important work happening across the state.
Part of that work involves returning water to Traditional Owners, supporting important cultural values and ongoing connections to land and water.
Last week, the former Amcor paper mill’s 1,405 megalitre licence was transferred back to Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung Cultural Heritage Aboriginal Corporation (WWCHAC) for cultural use.
This water can now be used by Traditional Owners for spiritual, cultural, environmental, social and economic purposes.
Traditional Owners have managed land and water sustainably for thousands of generations on Country, and its important these ongoing connections to Country are supported.
Earlier this year, Central Highlands Water transferred Dja Dja Wurrung Clans Aboriginal Corporation (DJAARA) some water in Newlyn Reservoir to support the health of Birch Creek and help heal Country.
DJAARA released 4 megalitres of water every day in June as part of a flows program to mimic a natural waterway and support important animals in the river, including platypus and river black fish.
Since 2021, Victoria has now returned 6,605 megalitres of water to Traditional Owners across the state – supporting their cultural responsibility to care for Country.
We support Traditional Owners to self-determine the use of returned water consistent with the landmark Water is Life: Traditional Owner Access to Water Roadmap.
Page last updated: 26/10/24