What we're doing to secure our water future

Published on 22 June 2026

When it comes to securing a long-term water supply for Uralla Shire, your Council is like a duck – serene on the surface but paddling furiously down below.

While water restrictions and occasional infrastructure works are the most visible signs, a great deal of planning, investigation and collaboration is underway behind the scenes to protect this vital resource for our community.

Council is actively strengthening the Shire’s water future through careful planning, targeted investment and innovative solutions. A key part of this work is the Safe and Secure Water Program, which provides a long-term roadmap for water security. It looks at the full water cycle, from supply and storage to reuse, efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Alongside this, detailed studies are helping identify future water supply options. Groundwater investigations are a critical step in this process, assessing whether local sources can play a greater role in supporting the Shire. Recent approval of Emergency Bore Water Access Licences will assist when our dam supply reaches critical levels, but more is needed.

Council is also tackling the challenges within the existing system. With parts of the water network ageing, leaks are becoming more frequent. Mapping the entire network is a key first step toward a long-term program of repairs and replacement, helping reduce water loss and improve efficiency.

This work is supported through close collaboration with NSW Government agencies, ensuring access to technical expertise, coordinated planning and helping in our drive for more funding from state and commonwealth governments.

Council is also working with neighbouring councils to explore regional water solutions, strengthening resilience and creating opportunities for shared resources - an increasingly important approach as climate becomes less predictable.

At the same time, major developments such as the New England Renewable Energy Zone are increasing demand on water resources, adding further urgency to long-term planning. Our priority is community first and we will continue to work with REZ proponents where our community can benefit in the long term.

By investing now and working collaboratively, we are working hard to secure a sustainable water future for Uralla Shire, one that will support our community through dry times and beyond.