Reallocation through irrigation modernization: The ‘once-in-a-hundred-year’ opportunity of the North-South Pipeline, Australia

There is growing international interest in securing water for cities by increasing the efficiency of irrigation, but realising this potential depends on clear accounting of where and how water savings have been achieved. Adopted in 2007, the Foodbowl Modernization programme and North-South Pipeline in Victoria, Australia is one of the largest attempts to secure water for cities through irrigation efficiency improvements. Over 10 years later, the case offers an opportunity to examine the outcomes of water reallocation from irrigation to the city of Melbourne. This paper explores the drivers, process and outcomes of the North-South pipeline, and identifies key lessons for irrigation-urban transfers: (1) not all irrigators benefit equally from the irrigation efficiency works; (2) clear accounting for water savings and paying for new infrastructure is essential; (3) emergency response (e.g. drought) can drive change; and (4) investment in community engagement is essential for building lasting community support.