Armidale’s water supply has evolved over time, with Malpas Dam, built in 1968, becoming the primary source.

Originally designed to meet a 20-year demand, the dam holds 13,000 megalitres, but its shallow catchment area limits inflows, making it vulnerable to drought conditions.

The 2017-19 drought highlighted these vulnerabilities, prompting ongoing efforts by the Armidale Regional Council and water authorities to develop a sustainable water management plan.

Despite its importance, Malpas Dam alone cannot fully meet the region’s needs, reinforcing the need to explore additional water sources for long-term security.

This summary is based on the article ‘Malpas Dam – History and its significance’, published by the Armidale Regional Council on 31 March 2025. Read the full article here.