Georgina and Diamantina water plan review calls for public feedback
Water users in the Georgina and Diamantina communities are encouraged to have their say on their future water needs as the Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water (DRDMW) begins drafting a new water plan.
The water plan area covers towns including Winton, Boulia, Bedourie, Camooweal and Birdsville and river systems including its namesakes the Diamantina River and Georgina River.
DRDMW North Region Executive Director Ingrid Fomiatti Minnesma said that the department looked forward to engaging with local communities throughout the water plan review and hoped to hear from many of them during upcoming on-ground consultation sessions set to commence in June.
“This is an opportunity to influence the next water plan, so it’s important to have your say now, while the opportunity is there,” she said.
“Some of our most important work as a department is to replace or renew water plans, and to ensure these plans will best service the needs of the communities, environments and industries that rely on them – both now and for the years to come because water plans are in place for a long time.
“As part of that, it’s important we hear directly from communities to make sure we’re thoroughly considering the water use, challenges and opportunities as we work to replace the plan.
“Whether providing feedback online, or connecting with us in person, I encourage water users in the Georgina and Diamantina region to have their voices heard,” Ms Fomiatti Minnesma said.
Public feedback is central to water planning in Queensland and will help guide the new water management framework to ensure that it sustainably balances the needs of existing and future water users, as well as protects the region’s unique natural assets.
Consultation will help identify relevant issues for the review to take into account including any new proposals that could place increased demands on water, the current and emerging interests of First Nations communities and the impact of climate change on the amount of water available in the future.
The water plan will also be based on the best available science and technical reviews, including hydrologic, socio-economic, cultural and environmental assessments.
The Georgina and Diamantina water plan manages a significant area of Queensland covering about 266,000 square kilometres – almost the same size as New Zealand – and is home to important waterways that form part of the Lake Eyre Basin.
The water plan review builds on the strong foundation set out in the current plan, with the 2019 Minister’s Performance Assessment Report finding it to be fit-for-purpose and effective in advancing the sustainable management of the precious water resources in the region.
On-ground consultations in the region are scheduled for June, providing communities with an opportunity to meet with the department in person. Keep an eye on the Water Queensland Facebook page for details as they become available.
To find out more or make an online submission visit the DRDMW website.
Submissions will close Friday 16 August 2024.
Public information sessions
Come along to one of our public information sessions to talk to us about the water plan review.
- Monday 24 June, 5–7pm, Boulia Shire Hall
- Tuesday 25 June, 5–7pm, Bedourie Community Centre
- Wednesday 26 June, 5–7pm, Birdsville Wirrarri Information Centre
- Thursday 27 June, 5–7pm, Windorah Community Centre
These sessions will start with a presentation about the water planning process and opportunities for you to ask questions and share your thoughts.
Light refreshments will be available.
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Contact DRDMW Media Unit:
Last updated: 15 May 2024