Proposed amendments to the Water Sharing Plan for the NSW Great Artesian Basin Groundwater Sources 2020
Following feedback provided by stakeholders in 2023, the NSW Government offered stakeholders another opportunity to have a say on the proposed amendments to this plan. Thank you to everyone who commented. Feedback on this plan closed on 6 April 2025.
The Water Sharing Plan for the NSW Great Artesian Basin Groundwater Sources 2020 (the Plan) establishes rules for managing water in the NSW portion of the Great Artesian Basin, including distance rules to manage interference between water users.
Water sharing plans are in place for 10 years under the Water Management Act 2000, with the plan valid until July 2030. Under the Water Management Act 2000, the plan may be amended under certain conditions and circumstances, including if the changes are in the public interest.
The NSW Department for Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (the department) sought public feedback in late 2023 on proposed changes to distance restrictions for new or amended work approvals for bores from other bores or property boundaries.
Several stakeholders opposed the proposed changes, while others supported the proposed changes. Some requested more information or suggested additional changes.
Further information on the proposed changes can be found in the update, what we heard report.
Read the update, what we heard report including information on the proposed amendments, how we have engaged, what we have heard from stakeholders so far and how to have your say during the additional consultation period.
View a map of the water sharing plan area.
Assistance
If you require assistance reading these documents, please contact 1300 081 047 or water.enquiries@dpie.nsw.gov.au.
Next steps
The department will consider all feedback and consult colleagues in the department’s Conservation Programs, Heritage and Regulation Group and other relevant agencies before making a recommendation to the Minister for Water.
The Minister of Water will decide if an amendment proceeds. The Minister for Water must have the agreement of the Minister for Environment before approving an amendment.
Further information
Watch the webinar
7 September 2023 – An information session was held during the 2023 consultation period about these proposed amendments to the Water Sharing Plan for the NSW Great Artesian Basin Groundwater Sources.
Contact us
If you have any questions, you can email the project team on wspconsultation@dpie.nsw.gov.au.