Public consultation closed - Bulk Water Entitlement application
We've applied for a new Bulk Water Entitlement (BWE) for water to be used to help rehabilitate the Yallourn mine after the power station closes in 2028. The application was on public exhibition at Engage Victoria over a four-week period, closing on 17 July 2026.
We sincerely thank all community members and stakeholders who took the time to find out more and make a submission. Your input helps shape how water is managed to support the site's rehabilitation and helps the process reflect the communities values and priorities.
While the consultation period is now complete, we encourage you to stay informed and engaged. For any other matters or enquiries, please reach out via the details on our Contact us page.
Thank you again for your participation and continued support.
Why we need water
The Declared Mine Rehabilitation Plan (DMRP) proposes transforming the former mine voids into pit lakes.
When mining stops, the water will fill the void to help stabilise the land and help reduce the risk of fire in the area. This has been the plan for the site since the 1990s, before EnergyAustralia owned it.
What we're asking for
We asked for less water, not more.
Our current entitlement allows up to 36.5 GL a year The new entitlement we've applied for caps this at 27 GL a year.
We can't take water whenever we want. We can only access it during the winter and spring months when river flow is higher.
Benefits of the lake
The rehabilitated lake is designed to deliver lasting value for the region.
A stable, full lake could provide habitat for birds, fish and other wildlife, alongside existing conservation areas and wetlands, and may open up opportunities for recreation and the local economy.
Managed overflow to the Latrobe River would help support the downstream river system that connects to the Gippsland Lakes, as well as the people and communities who rely on it.
Next Steps
Following the close of consultation, DEECA will review written submissions and survey responses from July-September 2026. The Minister for Water will then consider the application (date yet to be confirmed). If approved, the mine will begin filling with water after 2028.
The current stages are:
• application submitted to DEECA
• public exhibition (now closed)
• the Minister for Water considers the application
• if approved, the mine begins filling with water after 2028.
Ongoing Engagement
Although the formal consultation has ended, we encourage the community to remain engaged. Questions about the application, the rehabilitation process or other matters can still be directed to the contacts provided.
You can also visit us at the Morwell Community Hub, 228 Commercial Road, Morwell, open Wednesdays 10.00am to 3.00pm or by appointment.