Regulatory and Assurance Framework (RAF) Review

The Regulatory and Assurance Framework (RAF) PDF, 1100.53 KB is the key overarching framework for local water utilities (LWUs) in NSW and ensures that LWUs can manage risks and services effectively and strategically.

Introduced in 2022, the RAF provides guidelines for local councils and water supply authorities that manage the provision of water supply and sewerage services in regional NSW.

The RAF defines sector and departmental roles and objectives under an overarching vision and covers a range of regulatory and assurance functions and processes for water supply and sewerage services. These include strategic planning, dividend payments, works approvals, inspections, liquid trade waste concurrence, performance monitoring and reporting, review of regulatory decisions and co-regulator coordination.

The RAF encompasses several legislative and regulatory requirements and guidelines. LWUs, including water supply authorities, need to understand and follow the framework.

You can read the Regulatory and Assurance Framework (RAF) PDF, 1100.53 KB on our website

As part of a commitment to continuous improvement, the department has committed to periodic review of our regulatory approach, policies, processes, systems, and activities. Specifically, the RAF on page 6, commits to a “performance review of the implementation of the framework (and associated guidance materials), within 2 years from coming into effect” and periodic reviews at least every 5 years.

The RAF came into effect on 1 July 2022 and this is the first review.

The review aims to evaluate the performance and effectiveness of the implementation of the Regulatory and Assurance Framework for Local Water Utilities (RAF) PDF, 1100.53 KB since it came into effect on 1 July, 2022. It will assess stakeholder’s responses to and experiences with implementation of the RAF (and associated guidance) and determine if changes are advisable considering that evidence.

It will analyse how well, the RAF’s oversight functions, associated regulatory expectations and requirements are being met. It will consider if they are effectively implemented and will determine any major risks or emerging issues.

A post-review phase will explore solutions to the findings as well as consider varied proposed amendments to the RAF and its guidance from other processes and evaluate regulatory settings.

The RAF review includes supplementary guidance documents issued under the RAF, such as guidance on the 12 strategic planning outcomes under section 3 of the RAF.

The RAF on page 6 states the scope of the review as a performance review of RAF implementation. Essentially, “how well has the RAF been implemented since Ministerial approval?”

This review will consider water supply authorities and local water utilities in NSW covered by the RAF and not the major metropolitan utilities.

There are several ways to have your say.

You can fill in an online survey, participate in a feedback session or request an interview.

We welcome feedback from all interested stakeholders. These may include local water utilities (LWUs), councils, other regulators, industry or water management experts or professionals, relevant peak bodies, other organisations and members of the public.

The survey will close on 17 June 2025.

We encourage you to include your name, role and organisation in any feedback. However, there is an option to remain anonymous (except if your feedback claims to be representing an organisation).

All information received will be deidentified in final reporting.

We look forward to receiving feedback from all stakeholders. The data will be collated, analysed and summarised for reporting and communicated as appropriate.

The department will then consider how to best respond to the findings and communicate with stakeholders on that response.

Please email any enquiries about the RAF Review to water.enquiries@dpie.nsw.gov.au, including ‘RAF Review’ in the subject line.

You are also welcome to ask questions in feedback sessions and other engagement activities.