Georgina and Diamantina water plan review

This water plan has reached its maximum life of 20 years and is due to expire on 5 August 2024. To continue sustainable management of water resources in the plan area, we need to review it and make a new one.

To give enough time for the water plan review the Minister for Water is considering extending the expiry of the current plan for three years.

Important information about the area

The Georgina and Diamantina water plan area in central far west Queensland forms part of the Queensland section of the Lake Eyre Basin (the Basin).

The water plan works with the Lake Eyre Basin Intergovernmental Agreement 2001. This agreement recognises the ecological, pastoral, tourism and cultural significance of the Basin, which extends into Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales and the Northern Territory.

The water infrastructure in the area is minimal. There are no major water storages within the Georgina and Diamantina water plan area. There are only five water licences. Streams basically flow naturally. Water is mostly used for livestock grazing, town water supply and domestic purposes.

Part of the water plan area is in the Northwest Minerals Province, known for its production of copper, cobalt and vanadium. There is potential for further expansion of mining these and other rare earth minerals. The demands for water may therefore increase in the future to support this.

We need to find ways to best meet future demands for water, and make sure existing water users, cultural values and environmental water needs are met. To do this, we are reviewing and replacing the Georgina and Diamantina water plan and would like to hear what you think.

How to give your feedback

We want your feedback on our list of key issues. Let us know what other things you think we should consider as we review and replace the water plan.

First, read about the Georgina and Diamantina water plan.

Second, read through the key issues and the questions asked for each one. They are:

• How we manage water – watercourses, overland flow and groundwater
• The water plan area
• Updating the science
• Climate change
• First Nations and water
• Improving outcomes
• Identifying unallocated water
• Growing water needs

Third, have your say by sending a written submission to us by 16 August 2024.

We will be meeting directly with the community throughout the review process. If you would like to express interest in being part of the working group to help shape the new water plan, please let us know when you provide your submission.