Introduction

We are calling for expressions of interest in securing groundwater entitlement in the Lower Tertiary Aquifers (the Dilwyn Formation and deeper aquifers) within the boundary of the Warrnambool Zone and Dilwyn Formation (Lower Tertiary Aquifer) Paaratte Groundwater Management Area (GMA).

On the webpage, we have information sheets for each area that provide information regarding boundaries, approximate likely depth to the top of the aquifer, potential yield and salinity, as well as a series of Frequently Asked Questions and the Expression of Interest form for download.

Completed expression of interest forms must be submitted by 4:00 PM, Friday, 02 May 2025. Following this, Southern Rural Water will undertake an initial assessment of interest and will determine the process to apportion entitlement in an equitable manner. This may be via water auction, a tender process, or an alternate method.

Warrnambool Zone:

The total allocation available is 5,000 megalitres. Please note this aquifer is generally deeper than 400 metres below the surface, and it would require substantial time and financial investment to secure all relevant licences and install a bore to access this groundwater.

The boundary of the Warrnambool Zone is shown on the map. To be eligible you must own or occupy property within this boundary. If you are unsure if your property is within the boundary, please contact us and we can make an assessment.

Read our Warrnambool technical information sheet for details on boundaries, approximate depth to the top of the aquifer, and potential yield and salinity.

Paaratte GMA:

The total allocation available is 1,400 megalitres. Please note this aquifer is generally deeper than 400 metres below the surface, and it would require substantial time and financial investment to secure all relevant licences and install a bore to access this groundwater.

The boundary of the Paaratte GMA is shown on the map. To be eligible you must own or occupy property within this boundary. If you are unsure if your property is within the boundary, please contact us and we can make an assessment.

Read our Paaratte technical information sheet for details on boundaries, approximate depth to the top of the aquifer, and potential yield and salinity.