Preliminary public consultation notice – Replacement of the Water Plan (Mitchell) 2007 – s44 of the Water Act 2000

1. Proposal to replace the Water Plan (Mitchell) 2007

Notice is given under section 44 of the Water Act 2000 (the Act) that the Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers proposes to replace the Water Plan (Mitchell) 2007 (the water plan).

2. Water to which the water plan will apply

The water plan area is shown in the Mitchell water plan area map (PDF, 2.6MB).

3. Reason for preparing the replacement water plan

The water plan is due to expire on 1 November 2027 and is proposed to be replaced with a new plan to continue to advance the sustainable management of water resources in the water plan area. Assessments indicate that the implementation of the water plan has been effective in achieving its outcomes and advancing the sustainable management of water. Water use, authorisations, non-compliance and risks to the current water plan remain consistent with that reported in the 2023 Minister’s performance assessment report (PDF, 4.1MB).

The review will be conducted consistent with the requirements of the Act with a particular focus on the Queensland Government’s election commitment to enhance water security for Queensland communities, ensuring sustainable growth and resilience in water supply. The review will also be a part of the delivery of the commitment to review each of the 23 Queensland regional water plans in the next four years to determine if unallocated water can be provided to boost agricultural productivity.

To ensure the water plan continues to advance the sustainable management of water resources, the following matters need to be considered:

  • making water available to secure supply and foster economic growth, including identifying options to meet growing demand for new irrigated agriculture (in line with the government’s plan to grow agricultural production $30 billion by 2030), urban water and critical minerals while balancing associated impacts on other water interests and values
  • any future water requirements for anticipated further population growth in the plan area
  • emergent water security needs for the plan area (including securing water supplies for First Nations communities), with a focus on affordability
  • water entitlements, including the potential for water licences to be converted to water allocations
  • water trading, including identifying any barriers to accessing the existing trading framework to improve water resource utilization and support economic development
  • water management arrangements for surface water, groundwater and overland flow management thresholds
  • incorporating best-available science on water availability and the water needs for the environment
  • requirements under the Human Rights Act 2019.

In preparing a replacement plan, I propose to address these issues. Key documents that implement the water plan will also be developed or amended, as necessary.

4. Proposed arrangements for consultation

Submissions are now being sought. I encourage anyone with an interest in the Mitchell water plan area to put forward their thoughts on water management in the water plan area through a submission.

Submissions received and engagement with key stakeholders including water users, First Nations Peoples and other interest groups will inform the development of the draft replacement plan.

There will be further opportunity for consultation through a public submissions process and meetings with key stakeholders following the release of the draft replacement water plan.

5. Enquiries and submission process

To make a submission on water planning issues within the Mitchell water plan area, please contact the department:

  • email NorthWPS@rdmw.qld.gov.au
  • phone 1800 822 100
  • post to
    Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
    Water Services North Region
    Attention: Manager Water Planning and Science
    PO Box 156
    MAREEBA  QLD  4880

Preliminary consultation submissions will close on 30 September 2025.

This notice is dated 23 May 2025.

The Hon. Ann Leahy MP
Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers

Ingrid Fomiatti Minnesma
Executive Director North Region (as the Chief Executive’s delegate)