Reviewing the Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan
The Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan is being reviewed and replaced to ensure the continued sustainable management of water resources in the water plan area. The first round of public consultation closed on 28 September 2026.
The Warrego, Paroo and Nebine catchments are in the Murray-Darling Basin. The plan will need to consider recommendations from the Murray-Darling Basin Authority's review of the Basin Plan 2012 (Basin plan) and Australian Government's review of the Water Act 2007 and any subsequent amendments to those pieces of legislation to ensure that Queensland continues to meet its obligations.
The water management protocol is a statutory instrument to the water plan and will also be reviewed as part of the water plan review process.
We will consider a range of issues as we review the water plan and associated documents.
Timeline
Developing a new water plan can take several years, from initial consultation through to formal adoption.
Learn more about the 5 steps of the development process.
Past milestones
Step 1: Preliminary public consultation
We sought ideas and feedback through public consultation, and worked with stakeholders to provide opportunities for you to talk to us about the water plan review.
Current status
Step 2: Develop draft plan
We are reviewing feedback and undertaking technical assessments to develop the draft replacement water plan.
Future status
Step 3: Draft plan consultation (mid-2027)
The draft water plan will be released for a second round of public consultation.
Step 4: Finalise the plan (2027–28)
We will consider feedback received on the draft plan and finalise the replacement water plan.
Step 5: Plan in place (2028)
The new water plan is expected to commence in 2028.
Note: The water management protocol is proposed to be reviewed and finalised in parallel with similar milestones and timelines.
Enquiries
Phone (07) 3181 5120 during business hours.