Last updated: April 2026 | Author: Angus Hughson, Big Ditch Dam Building Company
- The total active storage percentage of rural water supplies on 06 January 2020 was 24.5%. This was a decrease of 1.6% within the last fortnight.
- NSW bushfires: No damage to Dungowan Dam but rainfall could pose water supply concern. The blaze has burnt through more than 22,000 hectares and surrounded Dungowan Dam. The dam is owned and managed by Tamworth Regional Council and, at times, is a water supply for the region.
- Sydney residents have dobbed in more than 4000 people for breaking the city’s tough new water restrictions in just one month, but only four offenders have been slugged with fines.
- Regional and metropolitan areas around NSW are facing water quality concerns in the face of the bushfire crisis. In some areas of the state, drinking water treatment plants have been physically damaged by fire or impacted by fire-related power outages, causing a loss of drinkable tap water. A reduction in water quality may also affect metropolitan areas, as ash and sediment may be washed into major water catchments such as Warragamba Dam.
- Malpas Dam sits on 33.3 per cent and Armidale residents have reduced their daily water consumption from 180 litres to 150 litres per person. Without significant rain, the dam could run dry by December this year.
- The New England council says it has six months of water left before Day Zero arrives. Shire Council acting general manager David Aber said Kentucky Creek Dam is due to run dry on July 23
- On January 2, the Bureau of Meteorology updated its climate outlook for the next few months, predicting continuing drier than average conditions throughout January for the eastern parts of Australia
- Dubbo residents are confused by the rapid rise in water restrictions which started at level two on June 1 last year followed by level three on October 1 and level four on November 1.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a farm dam cost in Australia?
Costs vary based on dam size, soil type, location and access. Big Ditch provides fixed-price quotes after a site inspection. Contact our team for an accurate estimate for your property.
Do I need council approval to build a farm dam?
Approval requirements vary by state and dam storage volume. In NSW, QLD and VIC, dams above certain sizes require approval. Big Ditch manages all regulatory compliance — contact us to discuss your situation.
How long does dam construction take?
Most farm dam projects take 3–14 days of machine time depending on size, soil, weather and access. Big Ditch will provide a realistic schedule during your site inspection.
Can Big Ditch help with my dam project?
Yes — Big Ditch specialises in earth dam construction, repair and maintenance across QLD, NSW and VIC with over 30 years experience. Call (02) 7229 4866 or book a site inspection online.