Cultural connection to water in the Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan area

Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples have a significant and deep connection to land and waters.

It is important to consider water-related cultural values and how Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples use water when reviewing the Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan.

The Water Act 2000 (the Act) requires a water plan to state the desired economic, social, cultural and environmental outcomes of the management and allocation of water to which the plan applies.

The Act also requires the Minister to consider the interests of any Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples in relation to the water resources of the plan area in making a draft of the water plan.

Understanding and recognising the cultural values and uses of water by Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples is an important part of the water planning process.

The current water plan includes outcomes that support the availability of water for Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples who depend on water resources within the plan area to achieve their social and economic aspirations; and the maintenance of flows that help sustain water-related cultural and recreational values.

In developing the replacement water plan, we will engage with Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples across the plan area to ensure that their water-related cultural values, uses and interests are appropriately recognised and considered.