Melbourne Water finalises largest-ever real-time metering upgrade

Melbourne Water has completed its largest connected metering project, finalising the rollout of real-time telemetry across surface water diversion meters. 

More than 1,300 licence holders take water from Melbourne Water’s waterways, including the Yarra and lower Maribyrnong catchments. With this upgrade, water use across these rivers can now be monitored accurately and continuously. This helps Melbourne Water manage water fairly and follow licence rules. It also gives water users direct, real-time access to their own usage, so they have better information when they need it. 
The rollout was delivered in partnership with Sage Automation and Kallipr, whose expertise in metering and telemetry systems supported the program’s successful completion.

“This investment is about managing water responsibly, for the long term and for every customer who relies on fair, consistent access,” said Head of Waterway & Catchment Services South East, John Woodland. 

“Real-time monitoring gives our customers and us a clearer, more accurate picture of water use across the region. That’s good for compliance, good for planning, and good for trust.” 

Stronger compliance measures now in place 

Alongside the infrastructure upgrade, new penalty infringement notices (PINs) have been introduced, official fines issued to anyone who interferes with meters or associated works such as telemetry equipment without proper authorisation. These penalties apply under Section 288 of the Water Act 1989. 

Effective 17 December 2025, the penalties are: 

Individuals: fines up to $2,442 

Body corporates: fines up to $12,211 

Interfering with a water meter is not only against the law. It can also disrupt supply for other customers, increase metering costs, and make it harder to manage water fairly. Melbourne Water is committed to enforcing these rules. 

What comes next 

The telemetry rollout will continue in the years ahead, with further meter upgrades planned across the region. By investing in modern diversion metering, Melbourne Water is supporting long-term water security, fair allocation, and better service for rural customers.

All water users must comply with licence conditions and Water Act 1989 obligations. If you face difficulty securing supply, contact Melbourne Water (131 722) immediately for support and guidance. Proactively plan for your water use during these dry conditions to ensure fair and reliable access for everyone. 
 
Media contact:  
03 9679 7004
[email protected]