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Legislation and policies

Information about acts and regulations, our policies, intergovernmental agreements and our role in assessing major developments.

Sheep in a drought stricken paddock.
Small farm dam.

There are two key pieces of legislation that govern the management of water in NSW, the Water Management Act 2000 and the Water Act 1912.

Water birds in the wetlands.

Learn about the reporting undertaken by the Department as required under the Water Management Act 2000.

Copper mine.

Learn about the department’s role in providing advice on major projects which have an impact on water resources and their dependent ecosystems.

Warragamba dam from above.

When there are water management concerns or interests that extend beyond one state or jurisdiction, governments may enter into formal intergovernmental agreements.

The Great Darling Anabranch.

This policy sets up a framework to manage extreme events in a structured and proactive way. It provides a clear and transparent framework for making decisions during extreme events.

Early morning sunrise glow and rising mist over the Murray River in Corowa. Rutherglen, NSW.

We recognise that the most effective way to successfully manage water is by collaborating with our stakeholders and the greater community.