Background
The Dams Safety Act 2015 (the Act) has four objects:
- ensure that any risks that may arise in relation to dams (including any risks to public safety and to environmental and economic assets) are of a level that is acceptable to the community
- promote transparency in regulating dam safety
- encourage proper and efficient management in matters relating to dam safety
- encourage the application of risk management and the principles of cost benefit analysis in relation to dam safety.
The Act mandates a statutory review five years after its commencement in November 2019. The Minister is required to table a review report to both Houses of Parliament by 31 October 2025. This review will evaluate whether the Act's policy objectives remain valid and if the Act's provisions are effective in achieving these objectives.
Timeline
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November 2019
Dams Safety Act 2015 commences.
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January 2025
Act review scope development and approval.
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May 2025
Issues paper.
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June 2025
Public consultation and submissions.
About the project
Owners of declared dams and other interested stakeholders will be invited to share their experiences and feedback within the scope of the review. The consultation process will be transparent and inclusive. It will provide opportunities for dam owners, NSW government agencies and the public, to participate in webinars, meetings, and other forums to learn more about and provide input to the review.
The primary aim of this review is to ensure the Act continues to support the safety of declared dams.