First Nations' connection to the water in the Mitchell water plan area

First Nations peoples have a significant and deep connection to land and waters.

With this comes a wealth of cultural knowledge that may be used to better protect and manage natural water resources across the water plan area. It is vital that cultural knowledge, as well as knowledge of the cultural, environmental, and economic values and aspirations of First Nations peoples, are incorporated into the water plan.

The current Mitchell water plan includes outcomes for supporting water-related cultural values and to support spiritual and social aspirations of First Nations peoples. However, the latest Minister's performance assessment report (PDF, 4.1MB) highlighted that we need to do more work to better understand the local cultural values that relate to water in the water plan area so we can cater for these needs.

During the water plan review, we will engage with First Nations peoples to ensure we have a better understanding of cultural water needs, social and economic aspirations. This will result in dedicated cultural outcomes in the new water plan and inform the settings for future Indigenous unallocated water reserves.