Melbourne Water has launched a new education centre designed to teach Victorian students about sustainable water management. 

The centre, located on Wadawurrung Country at the Western Treatment Plant in Werribee, was officially opened by Minister for Water Harriet Shing. 

A Year Seven class from Werribee Secondary College was the first to tour the Melbourne Water Education Centre. 

“Initiatives like this wonderful education facility, which we are proud to open today, empower Melburnians with the knowledge to manage this precious resource now and into the future,” says Melbourne Water Managing Director Dr Nerina Di Lorenzo.

The centre is the focal point of a comprehensive water literacy program, aiming to inspire the next generation about water conservation and management through hands-on learning experiences. 

It offers two main activities: the Circular Cities Digital Challenge and the Systems and Innovation tour. 

These activities allow students to engage in problem-solving exercises and explore innovative water management technologies.

Using six super-sized touch-tables, students work in teams to create a simulated sustainable city. 

Their decisions impact the city’s economy, environment, and community sentiment, which are projected in real-time on a 3.5-metre circular screen. 

This interactive approach is meant to instil a sense of responsibility and teach students the importance of compromise in urban planning. 

“The kids will learn through the simulation that what works for the wider community doesn’t always work for them, so they have to find a way through with compromise,” Shing said.

Additionally, students don hi-vis gear and tour the extensive treatment site, gaining insights into wastewater treatment processes and the necessity of circular systems for future cities. 

The program is aligned with Victorian curriculum priorities and includes resources for teachers to enhance the learning experience in classrooms.

Since its inception in 2013, the Water Literacy program at the Western Treatment Plant has educated over 40,000 students, community members, and industry professionals. 

This new centre is intended to offer an even more immersive and engaging educational experience.

For further details and to make bookings, visit The Future Water Story | Melbourne Water.