The Queensland Government has announced it will review all 23 water plans across the state and is launching public feedback to help shape a new water plan for the Whitsunday region.
It’s envisaged the consultation will help identify demand in areas not currently covered by a water plan, specifically the Don, northern Proserpine and southern O’Connell basins.
The Whitsunday water plan review will be informed by updated science and technical assessments, taking into account factors such as climate resilience, cultural values, unallocated water, and regional water demands, said Minister for Local Government and Water, Ann Leahy.
The new water plan will align with the Burdekin Regional Water Assessment, which focuses on economic development and urban water security across the broader region, she said.
“Labor left billions of litres of water tied up in bureaucracy, but the Crisafulli Government knows how important it is to unlock water to drive economic growth, more jobs, or stronger regional communities,” Minister Leahy said.
“Our Government knows the importance of water security across the Whitsunday region, and this is one of the steps we are taking to help deliver it long term.
“The proposal includes expanding the current plan area to create a new water plan, which would bring three coastal basins into Queensland’s water-planning framework for the first time.”
Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm said water security and sustainable growth were critical for the region, especially as new infrastructure and industries emerged.
“Water is the lifeblood of our region’s agricultural sector and getting this plan right means we will give our growers the confidence they need to invest and grow,” Ms Camm said.
“Public input is essential to getting this right and we want to hear from local communities, industry and cane growers about how water is used, what’s working, and what could be improved.”
For more information: https://www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/water/catchments-planning/water-plan-areas/whitsunday.
