Faster licence decision making and trading
There are varying levels of risk associated with water management across Western Australia. In some areas all available water for use is given out (nearing full allocation or over-allocated, e.g. parts of the Perth Basin), while resources in others areas are yet to be developed.
Currently the system is 'one size fits all'. It is cumbersome, complex and sometimes inefficient. Allowing for a flexible approach will enable simplification of the licensing process in low risk areas and more sophisticated ways to manage high risk areas.
The new Water Resources Management Act will:
- provide flexible management rules tailored to the level of risk to the resource
- streamline water licence application processes
- simplify the rules for renewal or amendment to existing licences
- allow increased licence tenure from 10 years up to 40 years (fewer licence renewal applications and greater security for users)
- require assessment of licence applications only where water is available
- set clear rules for water trading
- support development of statutory water allocation plans in high use areas
Streamlined water management will reduce costs and improve decision making.