The state government, in collaboration with business, community, First Nations leaders and council, is preparing a 50 year strategy to improve water security into the future.

It will look at all water sources, consider the potential impacts of climate change on these sources and identify potential water security solutions. This will be the second water security strategy the State Government has undertaken following the completion of the Barossa Water Security Strategy which was released in 2022 (see

Called the McLaren Vale Regional Water Security Strategy to reflect the McLaren Vale Geographical Indication or GI, the strategy will cover almost all of council’s areas and is relevant to our residents and businesses – not just those in McLaren Vale.

To help develop the water security strategy, three workshops have been undertaken during 2023-24. Through these workshops a shared water security vision for the McLaren Vale Region will be developed, and pathways to achieve that vision under a range of future scenarios will be considered. To find out more, including the outcomes from all three workshops, visit the Department for Environment and Water’s project website here.

A draft of the water security strategy will be shared for public consultation and feedback later this year, before being finalised.

Council has identified water security for the region as a key action in its Climate Change Response Plan. Importantly Council uses water to keep our public spaces cool and green, care for street trees, support biodiversity and much more. We believe equitable access to water for business, environmental, social and cultural needs is key to our city’s future. The McLaren Vale Regional Water Security Strategy is one way we can contribute to the critical discussions that need to happen now, to make good decisions for the future.

Long-term water security planning aims to help the McLaren Vale Region adapt to a changing climate and increasing demand for water and ensure that water is available to support the region’s water security vision.

For more information visit the DEW website.

Local perspectives and expertise are essential to develop a water security strategy for the region. If you would like to be involved, please contact Simon Jacobs on simon.jacobs2@sa.gov.au.