Proclaimed Area Maps
To protect our water sources, the Department of Water has set aside proclaimed areas.
It is illegal to take water from a watercourse or groundwater aquifer without a licence in a proclaimed area under the Rights in Water and Irrigation Act 1914.
Licences define how much and when water may be taken and specify any obligations the licence holder must meet when using the water.
During drought periods, restrictions make sure that available water is shared and that any potential damage to the environment, the resource and the user is minimised.
Applications for water licences can be made through the Department's regional offices.
Further information