Parts of Goulburn Valley Water’s service area are identified as high fire danger areas by the Country Fire Authority (CFA).
While we prepare year-round for emergencies, we cannot guarantee uninterrupted water supply or normal water pressure during a major bushfire.
This page explains how bushfires can affect town water systems, what you can do to prepare, and where to find reliable emergency information.
How bushfires can affect water supply
During a major fire event, demand on the town water system can exceed the capacity of the network. This may result in reduced water pressure, or temporary loss of supply.
Bushfires can also:
- Damage pipes, tanks or treatment infrastructure
- Disrupt electricity supply, affecting pumped systems
- Delay repairs until it is safe for crews to enter the area
If water supply or quality is affected, we will communicate directly with impacted communities and provide advice as soon as possible.
What you can do to prepare
We encourage customers to consider water supply as part of their bushfire preparedness — particularly if you live in a rural or bushfire-prone area.
You may wish to:
- Identify alternative water sources such as tanks, dams or pools
- Store drinking water in advance on high fire danger days
- Ensure pumps can operate during a power outage
- Keep clean containers available for water storage
As a general guide, storing at least 10 litres per person is recommended as a minimum.
If you plan to stay and defend your property, ensure your fire plan identifies reliable water sources and backup power options. Leaving early is the safest option.
For broader bushfire planning advice, visit the Country Fire Authority website.
Drinking water quality during and after a fire
In some circumstances, bushfires may affect drinking water quality.
If this occurs, we may issue a boil water advisory until safety can be confirmed.
If boiling is not possible, alternative arrangements and advice will be provided where feasible.
Always follow official advice issued for your area.
What we do to prepare
We prepare for bushfire season year-round by:
- Maintaining and monitoring our water networks
- Planning for periods of high fire danger
- Preparing backup systems where possible
- Working closely with emergency services
During an emergency, we work with the CFA and other agencies to:
- Provide access to water sources (temporary fill points, standpipe access)
- Support water carting where required
- Carry out repairs as soon as it is safe to do so
Stay informed
For current fire danger ratings, warnings and emergency information, stay up to date through the following official sources:
For current Goulburn Valley Water service updates, visit our Current Service Interruptions and Emergencies and Natural Disasters page.
Accessibility
The following services can help you, or someone you know, access information during an emergency.
- To access this information in other languages call the Translating and Interpreting Service on 131 450 (freecall) and ask them to call VicEmergency Hotline.
- If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech/communication impairment contact National Relay Service for assistance and ask them to call the VicEmergency Hotline.