Two NSW Water Sharing Plans extended

Two NSW Water Sharing Plans (WSP) have been extended to allow for the consideration of a recent review by the Natural Resources Commission.

Executive Director of the Department of Industry – Water Rachel Connell, said the Great Artesian Basin Groundwater plan and the Bellinger River Unregulated plan have successfully governed water usage in their areas for the last decade.

“We’ve extended both plans for a further two years to allow us to respond to a review undertaken by the Natural Resources Commission.

“This gives the government the time needed to revise the WSP in accordance with the recommendations of the Natural Resources Commission and community consultations.

“The new plans will potentially be some of the first to include new state-wide requirements for metering to ensure improved monitoring, evaluation and reporting of water usage.

“They will also incorporate current science and knowledge, review arrangements for Aboriginal cultural values and allow for further community input.

“Water sharing plans ensure the needs of communities, industry and the environment are all taken into account when determining water usage.

“This extension provides certainty around the rules for water sharing to both the Bellinger River and the Great Artesian Basin regions for years to come,” she said.

Copies of the Natural Resources Commission reviews can be obtained from their website.