19 October 2026
Goulburn Valley Water (GVW) is inviting residents, community and community group members, business owners and landholders from Longwood and Longwood East to express their interest in joining the Longwood Water Supply Community Reference Group.
Expressions of interest are now open to join the group, which will provide local knowledge, insights and feedback to help inform the current investigation into the long term- water supply option for the community.
The Community Reference Group forms part of GVW's Longwood Future Water Supply Project, exploring options to improve the reliability, resilience and long-term sustainability of the water supply to Longwood and Longwood East. The investigation comes after the 2026 bushfires, which significantly impacted the Longwood Water Treatment Plant, driving the need to assess long-term solutions to secure the future water supply to meet the needs of the community today and into the future.
GVW Managing Director Danielle Roche said local involvement would play an important role in informing a future water supply option.
"Securing a reliable and sustainable water supply for Longwood and Longwood East is incredibly important, and we want to involve the community throughout the journey," Danielle said.
"Local community members bring knowledge, experience and perspectives that are invaluable to a project like this. Their input will help us understand local priorities, potential impacts and opportunities as we assess the most sustainable long-term option. This Community Reference Group gives people a direct way to contribute and helps ensure local voices shape the investigation as it progresses."
Community members will be selected through an expression of interest. The group will also invite regional stakeholder representation, including local government, CFA and the Taungurung Land and Waters Council.
The group will meet regularly throughout the investigation, providing feedback, sharing information and helping build broader awareness and understanding of the project across the community.
Expressions of interest close on Sunday 1 November 2026.
For more information and to apply, visit watermatters.gvwater.vic.gov.au