The Resource manager did not change seasonal determinations in the Murray, Goulburn and Loddon systems, which are at 100% high-reliability water shares (HRWS). The Campaspe system seasonal determination is unchanged at 100% HRWS and 48% low-reliability water shares (LRWS), while the Broken system is at 100% for both.

“Warm and dry conditions since the previous assessment have meant evaporation and operating losses are close to our estimates,” according to Resource Manager Dr Mark Bailey. He said based on current weather and flow conditions, it is unlikely that either the Murray or Goulburn systems will receive LRWS allocations this season. Current water storages are well below year-ago levels, with hot and dry conditions reducing inflows.