SUMMARY
Water Account, Australia presents information on the physical and monetary supply and use of water in the Australian economy. It is compiled, as far as possible, in accordance with the System of Environmental-Economic Accounting (SEEA). The Water Account also provides information on the water use and consumptive practices of households and key industries (Agriculture and Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Services).
During 2014-15, an estimated 76,140 gigalitres (GL) of water were extracted from the environment to support the Australian economy, as shown in Diagram 1.1. Of this amount, 12,145 gigalitres were extracted for distribution (or supply) to industry and households, largely by the Water Supply, Sewerage and Drainage Services industry (12,060 GL).
The Electricity and Gas Supply industry extracted 58,105 gigalitres out of the 76,140 gigalitres of water extracted for own use (self-extracted) by industry and households. The majority of this water was used for hydro-electricity generation, which is a non-consumptive use.
Total water consumption in 2014-15 was 17,375 gigalitres. 15,522 gigalitres were consumed by industry, and 1,852 gigalitres by households.
Diagram 1.1 below provides an overview of key data and sets out the scope of the Water Account, Australia by presenting the flows of water within the Australian economy, and between the economy and the environment.
1.1 WATER SUPPLY AND USE IN THE AUSTRALIAN ECONOMY, 2014-15
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