Published strategy

Greater Sydney: a portfolio perspective

A sourced strategy summary on conservation, existing assets and long-term water services.

Strategy summary2 min readEdition: 25 September 2026

Context and evidence

The NSW Government’s Greater Sydney Water Strategy addresses the region’s long-term water services, including Sydney, the Illawarra and Blue Mountains. It covers water, wastewater, recycled water and stormwater. This page summarises the strategy, not the delivery status of individual projects.

The stated direction

The official overview prioritises conservation and efficiency and better use of existing assets, including operation of the Sydney Desalination Plant. It also links the strategy to a complementary drought response plan. Read the source for the complete programme and subsequent updates.

Planning interpretation

Our interpretationA portfolio needs to be evaluated across the complete system: source reliability, treatment, transfers, distribution and demand. Benefits should be tested against common assumptions, with explicit attention to dry sequences and delivery lead times.

What this case does not establish

This summary does not verify the hydraulic performance of a specific supply zone or endorse a project option. Those conclusions require a purpose-built model and current utility criteria. Continue to the Australian water security guide.

Sources & further reading

Source findings are distinguished from editorial interpretation. Apply current local criteria and project evidence when making engineering decisions.