Building a resilient region: Securing Armidale’s water future

Published on 16 June 2025

Armidale Regional Council is making significant strides toward a resilient and sustainable water future for the region. Since the drought ended in 2020, the council has worked closely with the NSW Government to develop a comprehensive strategy aimed at securing long-term water supply and reducing the impact of increasingly frequent and severe droughts. Now, in 2025, with a science-backed plan shaped by expert advice, the council is well-positioned to take decisive action and is actively lobbying for government funding to turn its vision into reality.

Malpas Dam was originally designed and constructed over 50 years ago to serve a much smaller population. Today, it provides around 13,000 megalitres of storage, which is no longer sufficient to meet the region’s growing needs. In fact, with a changing climate and a limited catchment Malpas Dam can only meet about 60% of daily water demand. Armidale’s current water infrastructure has struggled to meet the needs of our population during times of drought. Without intervention, the region faces increasing vulnerability. The NSW Government has listed our region at the highest risk level for water security.

To address these challenges, Council is implementing a multi-pronged strategy that includes:

Stage 1

• Restoring Oaky River Dam to its original capacity: Once a hydroelectric facility, the dam will be rebuilt to its original capacity, providing a vital new water source.

• Construct a water transfer pipeline from Oaky River Dam to the Armidale Water Treatment Plant

This will connect the dam to the broader water network, improving supply reliability and resilience.

Stage 2

• Raising Malpas Dam by 6.5m: Increasing the dam’s capacity will enhance long-term storage and drought resilience. This can accommodate population and industry growth.

• Renew and upgrade pipeline from Malpas Dam to Armidale Water Treatment Plant: This will improve delivery efficiency and system reliability.

• Transfer excess water from Armidale Water Treatment Plant to Malpas Dam: This allows Oaky Dam to supplement and sustain Malpas Dam levels.

• Upgrading and maintenance of water treatment facilities: This will ensure we continue to provide clean, safe water that meets health and safety standards—now and into the future.

Why this matters: The cost of inaction 

Choosing not to act would come at a high cost. Without these upgrades:

• Water shortages would become more frequent and severe.

• Economic growth and community wellbeing would be at risk.

• Carting water for a large population is not an option.

• The delivery of the New England Renewable Energy Zone (NEREZ), which could increase the population by 8% and create thousands of jobs, would be jeopardised.

A Vision for the future 

By investing in smart infrastructure now, Armidale Regional Council is securing water for the next 30 years—ensuring the region remains liveable, prosperous, and prepared for the future. This water security package is essential to support population growth, industry development, and climate resilience.