Goulburn-Murray Water (GMW) is warning people against illegally pumping water from storage and waterways following a spate of incidents in recent weeks.
As the weather has become warmer and drier, several cases have been reported of people parking at boat ramps or beside waterways on public roads and pumping water into their trailer tanks.
GMW Water Delivery Services General Manager Warren Blyth said people caught doing this would face legal action.
“The water stored in our lakes, dams and reservoirs belongs to entitlement holders,” he said.
“When people illegally take water from our storages and waterways, they take our customers’ water.
“Water is a valuable and limited resource. To ensure fairness in its use, we take a zero-tolerance approach to any unauthorised take.”
Under the Water Act 1989, people caught pumping water from a GMW storage or waterway without the appropriate authorisations can be prosecuted for water theft.
Mr Blyth said those in need of water but lacking entitlements, could contact GMW to discuss their options.
“Our diversions inspectors can help people with any questions about how they can gain authorisation to take water,” he said.
“People in urgent need of water also have the option of using emergency water supply points.”
There are about 300 emergency water supply points in Victoria. These are bores and standpipes from which people can draw water for emergency stock and domestic or rural needs.
People can search for nearby emergency water supply points on the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action website
Those wanting to discuss their options for sourcing water can phone GMW on 1800 013 357.
People can use the same number to report any instances of water theft or send an email to compliance@gmwater.com.au
