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Abstract
Water restrictions have operated in Melbourne since October 2002. The
immediate reason for their introduction was that the water in storage was
depleted by drought. However, the Victorian government has expressed
concern that the combined effects of population increase and possible
adverse effects of climate change on water supplies, along with the
traditional problem of variable runoff into water storages, could mean
Melbourne will be approaching its supply limits within fifteen years
(Victorian Government 2004, p.94). The government has recently
reviewed options for Melbourne’s water economy, in the context of an
overall assessment of Victoria’s water future. The review included the
preparation of green and white papers on water (Victorian Government
2003, 2004).