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❓ Hon. Anthony Spagnolo inquires about the preliminary findings of the government's groundwater investigation in the Swan Valley and whether these findings have been shared with residents. The answer outlines groundwater level changes and potential causes, but states findings will only be available after the final report.

AnsweredQoN 1505Legislative Council

Asked

14 April 2026

Member

Hon Anthony Spagnolo

Portfolio

Aboriginal Affairs; Water; Climate Resilience; South West

QuestionView source ↗

I refer to the Government’s groundwater investigation in the Swan Valley, and I ask:(a) what preliminary findings have been identified regarding the causes of rising groundwater; and(b) have these findings been shared with affected residents?

AnswerView source ↗

Answered

14 May 2026

Responded by

Leader of the House representing the Minister for Aboriginal Affairs; Water; Climate Resilience; South West

Response time

6 days

(a) Between 2010 and 2023, Superficial aquifer groundwater levels across the investigation area showed rises of approximately 1.5 to 2.5 metres. This follows historical declines of 3 to 5.5 metres between 1990 and 2010 in the Swan Valley groundwater subarea. The water table rise in this area is likely linked to increased recharge associated with land clearing activities (including sand mining), urban development, bushfires and controlled burns. Superficial aquifer groundwater levels generally still show an overall net decline when comparing levels in 1990 to those in 2023.
(b) Findings will be made available following the review process and completion of the final report.

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