Changing water needs in the GABORA water plan area

Since the Great Artesian Basin and other regional aquifers (GABORA) water plan commenced in 2017, the needs and issues to be dealt with have likely changed.

We need to review how water is shared and balance growing demand for water for towns and communities, mining and gas, agriculture, as well social, cultural and environmental purposes. In doing so, we will consider the known impacts of these purposes together with all the other identified interests and values.

The water plan review will use technical assessments to consider:

• existing water users
• groundwater dependent ecosystems including springs
• social, cultural and economic values and uses
• and
• water availability and environmental water needs.

We want to understand your views on how we should prioritise competing demands for water and how we can cater for the growing demands without impacting existing water users and the environment.