How we manage water in the GABORA water plan area

The Great Artesian Basin and other regional aquifers (GABORA) water plan sets out rules for sustainably managing the take and interference with groundwater in aquifers and springs associated with the Queensland Great Artesian Basin (GAB) and other significant non-GAB aquifers.

The current water plan seeks to balance:

  • maintaining flows to groundwater dependent ecosystems including springs and existing water users
  • improving groundwater pressure by requiring watertight delivery systems
  • providing for new access to water
  • promoting the permanent and temporary trade of water licences.

The current plan sets out the strategies for achieving these outcomes, including:

  • not increasing the average amount of water taken
  • reserving unallocated water for future use
  • requiring a licence for certain activities
  • requiring watertight delivery systems to restore groundwater pressure
  • setting criteria and thresholds for protecting bores and springs
  • requiring volumetric limits for licences.

We will consider, in consultation with stakeholders, how effective the current arrangements have been in achieving the plans outcomes.

What do you think?

Do you think we should change how we manage groundwater in the plan area?

Have your say

Also consider…