The dam's main purpose is for the generation of hydro-power and is one of the sixteen major dams that comprise the Snowy Mountains Scheme, a vast hydroelectricity and irrigation complex constructed in south-east Australia between 1949 and 1974 and now run by Snowy Hydro.

Completed by Theiss Brothers in 1961,[1] Tooma Dam is a major dam, located near the village of Tooma and approximately 21 kilometres (13 mi) from the town of Khancoban.

The dam was constructed by Societe Dumez based on engineering plans developed under contract by the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Authority.

At 100% capacity the dam wall holds back 28,124 megalitres (993.2×10^6 cu ft) of water.

[2][3] Tooma Reservoir is a popular alpine fishing location; and holds both Brown and Rainbow trout.