❓ A parliamentary question regarding the prioritisation of water access from the Yarragadee aquifer, balancing agricultural needs with urban water supply. The government assures priority for agriculture and minimises impact on farming activities and water rights.
AnsweredQoN 902Legislative Council
QuestionView source ↗
The State Government is planning to draw water from the Yarragadee aquifer to supply the city’s needs, putting thousands of farmers at risk. Could the minister please explain - Several members interjected. Hon FRANK HOUGH: Did members opposite think I was Pauline Hanson? (1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS
AnswerView source ↗
Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Several members interjected. Hon FRANK HOUGH: Did members opposite think I was Pauline Hanson? (1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: Did members opposite think I was Pauline Hanson? (1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met.
(4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Several members interjected. Hon FRANK HOUGH: Did members opposite think I was Pauline Hanson? (1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Hon FRANK HOUGH: Did members opposite think I was Pauline Hanson? (1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(1) Will priority be given to the needs of agriculture and rural development over the needs of city residents when water in the Yarragadee aquifer is accessed? (2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(2) What steps will the Government take to ensure there is sufficient water in the aquifer for agricultural and rural development when the water is diverted for the use of city residents? (3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(3) To what extent will farming activities on land above the aquifer be curtailed because of the Water Corporation’s water protection zones? (4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(4) To what extent will private property rights to water be effected for those farmers located on land above the aquifer? Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Hon TOM STEPHENS replied: Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Ministers all around me and I have a great interest in this question and the answer to it. The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
The Minister for the Environment and Heritage has provided the following reply: (1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
(1) Yes, future agricultural and rural water requirements will be given priority access to water from the south west Yarragadee aquifer in accordance with section 8.5 of the state water strategy, which clearly states that a review of current new water source development projects involving inter-regional transfers will be completed so that all reasonable regional needs can be provided for. This will include the south west Yarragadee. Studies are currently being undertaken on the potential of the viticultural, horticultural and dairy industries and their anticipated future water requirements, cultural and social values and economic development forecast for the south west. These studies will determine both sustainable and regional development requirements. Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met. (2) Comprehensive investigations are under way to determine the potential sustainable volume of water that may be allocated while also taking into consideration any environmental requirements. Allocations for state, regional and local development requirements will then be made before any allocation is provided to the integrated water supply scheme. Regional and local needs are being determined through the studies mentioned in question (1). Water users and peak industry groups are involved in these studies. The final ground water management plan for the south west Yarragadee will be reviewed within seven years of its release. (3) Investigations to date indicate that the recharge area for the aquifer is within the state forest. Outside the recharge area the aquifer is confined and water quality protection zones will be limited to a wellhead protection zone. Consequently, no water protection zones will affect agricultural land. (4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
Any water deemed available for public water supply will become part of the State’s integrated water supply scheme - section 6.1 - whereby water requirements for both metropolitan and regional demands will be met.
(4) Farmers located on land above the aquifer will not have their private property affected. Rights to take and use water are secured by licences under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914. Property rights to water are granted only through a licence on the basis of a sustainable yield of the aquifer in question. The Water and Rivers Commission is obliged to consider any detrimental effects of a new proposal on existing rights. The commission has a clearly stated framework that guides its response to licence applications using a four-stage response strategy.
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