The north east of Victoria is currently affected by bushfires, and we recognise that you may be impacted by the bushfire emergency currently unfolding.
Below is some information you may find useful – we will keep this page updated with relevant information, and you can phone us on 1800 013 357 with any queries.
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Please note that some GMW storages may be in areas that are under Vic Emergency alerts and warnings. Before travelling to our storages or to any potentially fire-affected areas, please check:
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Information for GMW customers
To assist you during this time, we have made a number of changes to our services:
- All GMW potentially fire impacted customer account payments have been temporarily placed on hold (this includes already established payment plans). If you are potentially impacted, you will receive a letter from us.
- Customers who have fire damaged GMW infrastructure should directly contact Customer Service Manager Stephen Gemmill on (03) 5723 3230.
- Established a dedicated team of Call Centre staff to specifically handle incoming enquiries from fire-impacted customers. Please call us on 1800 013 357 and select "4" for the bushfires option.
- Established this webpage dedicated to resource information specific to the north east Victorian bushfire emergency, including support agencies and recovery information.
We will continue to monitor the situation as it unfolds, however in the interim, if you have any questions or concerns please call us on 1800 013 357.
Changes in water quality
Customers in fire-impacted areas (including those downstream) may see changes in water quality from their supply source.
Ash and dust can create water quality issues after fires by contaminating storages. This most often occurs after rainfall events, which can transport ash and debris, however customers should be on aware of potential changes to water quality now.
We ask our customers to watch for any changes to water colour and/or odour. It is important to monitor your supply source and have in place alternative arrangements if water quality deteriorates.
Remember water supplied by GMW is unfit for human consumption, directly or indirectly, without first being properly treated.
Emergency water relief for bushfire affected residents
South East Water, based in Frankston, will be providing bushfire aid on behalf of the Victorian water industry to tank water users in the north east Victoria and east Gippsland regions.
Anyone seeking emergency water assistance from the bushfire affected areas should contact South East Water on 131 851.
More information is available here.
Emergency water supply points
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) oversees a network of about 300 emergency water supply points, which provide water for emergency stock and domestic purposes during severe dry seasonal conditions, surface water scarcity, and bushfires. Some sites are also equipped to supply water to firefighting vehicles.
A map of all emergency water supply points is available at the DELWP website.
Where to find up-to-date emergency information
Vic Emergency is responsible for emergency information and will always have the most up-to-date information available. You can also download their app on your mobile phone.
Department of Health fact sheets
The Department of Health has developed a number of fact sheets to assist communities in the event or aftermath of a fire.
These fact sheets are available from the health.vic website.