FAQs

IWM is a holistic and collaborative approach to the way we plan for and manage all elements of the water cycle.

IWM considers how the delivery of water, wastewater and stormwater services can contribute to water security, public and environmental health and urban amenity. It fundamentally shifts the way water, land use planning and urban development opportunities are understood and undertaken.

East Gippsland has a wealth of natural water resources, including rivers, lakes, and coastal areas, which provide significant ecological and recreational benefits to local communities. Managing these valuable resources presents complex challenges, particularly in balancing waterway health, recreational and industry use, flood control, and stormwater management. Additionally, the region faces intensified difficulties due to climate change, making effective water management even more crucial.

An Integrated Water Management Plan includes actions to help respond to some challenges related to:

• projected population growth and associated urbanisation and increasing demand for potable water
• preserve and enhance water security so present and future communities share the benefits
• waterway and wetland health due to stormwater runoff quality

While a hotter, drier climate presents a preview of what the future could like, this can be mitigated with strong climate action and integrated water management.

This IWM Plan is being developed by East Gippsland Water (EGW), in partnership with the East Gippsland Shire Council (EGSC) and supported by the Department of Energy, Environment & Climate Action (DEECA). 

Key stakeholders will be engaged on the development of the IWM Plan, which will include identifying key risks, challenges and opportunities. 

An IWM Plan for Lakes Entrance has been flagged as a priority for the region in the East Gippsland IWM Strategic Directions Statement, which was prepared by the Department of Energy, Environment, and Climate Action in 2022. 

The Strategic Directions Statement lists IWM opportunities identified through a collaborative process involving Local Government, water corporations, catchment management authorities, local Indigenous groups, health authorities, and DEECA.

• Management of water use associated with council operations and the provision of community facilities and services such as aquatic centres and irrigation of sporting facilities 
• Management of local stormwater treatment assets including wetlands, gross pollutant traps, and raingardens
• Management of drainage assets, such as pits, culverts, pipes, and roads 
• Management and restoration of nature, including public open space, street trees, and urban wetlands
• Working in partnership with other key stakeholders, such as East Gippsland Water, government agencies, community organisations, businesses and residents on the delivery of IWM projects and planning.

Lakes Entrance, Kalimna, Lake Tyers, Lake Bunga, and Toorloo Arm