Murray–Darling Basin: Key findings
For the water account period 1 July 2017–30 June 2018
- Total annual rainfall was well below average and the lowest in 15 years.
- The dry conditions, particularly over the northern part of the region, resulted in very low streamflows and aquifer recharge.
- End of year storage volume dropped to 52% full compared to 69% full last year.
Climate and water
Rainfall
337 mm
well below the average of 461 mm
Streamflow
below average
less than last year
Storage
52% full
25% less than last year
Water use
Water supplied
11,374 GL*
individual users
81%
environmental use
16%
urban system
3%
*Net supplied volume
Water status
Entitlements
19,494 GL
total surface water and groundwater entitlements
Water assets
18,485 GL
water assets at 30 June 2018
3,914 GL less than last year
Outlook
Decrease
in storage expected during the 2018–19 year