28 July, 2026
Goulburn Valley Water (GVW) is investigating options to secure a reliable and resilient future water supply for the Longwood community.
The January 2026 fires caused significant damage to the Longwood Water Treatment Plant and the surrounding catchment. Since then, GVW has continued to provide safe and reliable drinking water through water carting arrangements while long-term options are explored.
One option being investigated would see treated drinking water supplied to Longwood from the Seymour Water Treatment Plant via Avenel. To support this work, GVW has engaged engineering and professional services company Jacobs to conduct technical and planning works to support the option assessment.
GVW General Manager Planning and Assets, Regan Flanagan, said the investigation is a key step in understanding whether this option could meet Longwood's future water needs.
“The Longwood fires had a significant impact on the town's water supply and on the quality of untreated water within the catchment, highlighting the need for a more resilient solution. We're now investigating whether supplying treated water from Seymour via Avenel could be a suitable long-term option.”
At this stage, no decisions have been made on Longwood’s future water supply. The investigation will help determine feasible options and identify any opportunities or constraints before future decisions are considered.
Over the coming months, residents may notice surveyors and specialist crews working in and around Longwood, Avenel and surrounding areas to gather the information needed to assess options. The work may include surveying, heritage and environmental assessments, and other field investigations to better understand local conditions and potential pipeline routes.
"This is a normal part of early project planning and helps us build a clear picture of what may be possible and best for Longwood before any decisions are made." Ms Flanagan said.
Where investigations require access to private property, GVW will work with landholders to discuss proposed activities and answer questions before entering land.
GVW is also setting up a Customer Reference Group to provide local knowledge, insights and community perspectives to help inform future planning. Expressions of interest to join the group will open shortly.
"Longwood residents know their community better than anyone, and their local knowledge will be invaluable as we explore options for the town's future water supply," Ms Flanagan said.
Customers, landholders and community members can stay informed, receive project updates and register their interest in joining the Customer Reference Group through GVW's Water Matters website: https://watermatters.gvwater.vic.gov.au/longwood-water-supply