Woodhams and Davies welcome review of 'first in - first served' water policy
Author: Mia Davies
Published on: 19-September-2011
Member for Moore, Grant Woodhams and Member for the Agricultural Region, Mia Davies today welcomed the review of the State Government’s policy dealing with unallocated water.
Mr Woodhams said the ‘first in - first served’ water policy dated from 1914 and it was time for it to be reviewed.
“As we see land uses in regional areas diversify, it has become clear we need a more rigorous policy framework to ensure water resources are managed appropriately,” Mr Woodhams said.
“The Government has recognised the current approach may not produce the best outcomes, as it does not have a process for evaluating multiple applications, nor answer the question of whether some end users should be given greater value than others.”
The Nationals have consistently stated that it was appropriate to review the policy, to better address water scarcity and cater for changing land-use in regional areas.
Ms Davies said the opportunity for all stakeholders to shape future policy was significant and encouraged interested Local Governments and individuals to participate in the review.
“Water needs in regional areas are changing – as water becomes more scarce and we have more people vying for the same resources it is timely to review this policy,” Ms Davies said.
“This is a good chance to have a fresh look and develop a policy that will better shape the way water is used into the future.”
The Department of Water has released a discussion paper about this policy and is calling for comments before 28 October 2011.
Comments will be considered at part of the review of the policy to manage unallocated water in Western Australia.
For more information about the review call the Department of Water on 08 6364 6872.
