Yan Yean Reservoir water supply
From time to time, we change water supplies to ensure you have high-quality drinking water on tap when you need it. Adding Yan Yean water to our supply system means there is more water available as more people move into the area.
In total, 10 major reservoirs supply water across Melbourne and all water is treated to stringent water quality standards – so you receive safe, reliable and high quality water wherever you live.
Find out more about Melbourne's water storage reservoirs.
Current changes
In March 2025, many of our customers in Bundoora, Lalor, Mill Park and Thomastown will have a small portion of their water supplied from the Silvan Reservoir. Customers in these suburbs currently receive all of their water from the Winneke Reservoir. The change is to address some issues with low water pressure that customers may have noticed on high demand days. This change is initiated by Melbourne Water.
Customers may notice slight changes to the colour or taste of their water. Any such change should be minimal.
Frequently asked questions
Is the water safe to drink?
Yes, the water is safe to drink. The Yan Yean Reservoir is a major supply system that can supply residents and businesses with high quality drinking water. The source of your water may be different but the water is treated to the same drinking water quality standards as your previous water supply.
Why does my water appear different?
A change in water source can sometimes mean your water looks, smells or tastes slightly different. This is because it comes from a different place. It is still safe to drink and use as normal.
Is a chlorine smell a concern.
No. We add chlorine to water as part of the water treatment process. The chlorination levels are within the same range as other sources of water in the Melbourne area.
Will running taps or boiling water help with changes in smell, taste or appearance?
No, you may notice a slight change but boiling the water won’t change the way it tastes. Your water supply is treated to the same drinking water quality standards as all water in our service area.
Why is my water a different colour? Is it safe to bath or shower?
Water can look slightly different depending on where it comes from. Your water is clean and safe. Any change in colour is not from dirt or your water pipes.
You can use your water normally for things like drinking, showering, bathing and washing dishes or clothes.
Why haven't I heard about this change?
At times we need to change where we supply water from. This is something we manage on behalf of our customers to ensure there is enough water to supply everyone we need to.
We have provided information through targeted social media posts to people living and working in the suburbs that receive the new supply. As well as our faults map, and website.
Why am I getting a different water supply but a neighbour is not?
Different areas around Melbourne will be serviced by different water tanks. The location of these different service areas can mean neighbours living across the street get their water from different places. Close neighbours can be affected differently when we have a change or a disruption to water supply.
Who can I contact for more information?
If you have questions or concerns, please call us 24 hours a day on 13 27 62.