Preliminary public consultation notice – Proposed replacement of the Water Plan (Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine) 2016 – s44 of the Water Act 2000

1. Proposal to replace the Water Plan (Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine) 2016

Notice is given under section 44 of the Water Act 2000 (the Water Act) that the Minister for Local Government and Water and Minister for Fire, Disaster Recovery and Volunteers proposes to replace the Water Plan (Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine) 2016 (the water plan).

2. Water to which the water plan will apply

It is proposed that the new water plan will continue to apply to the following water as described in the current water plan, including:

  • surface water —
  • groundwater, underground water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and other regional aquifers) 2017 does not apply.

The water plan area is shown in the map below.

Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan review map

Map of the Warrego, Paroo, Bulloo and Nebine water plan area

3. Reason for preparing the replacement water plan

The water plan is due to expire on 1 September 2026, and it is proposed to be replaced with a new water plan to continue to advance the sustainable management of water resources in the water plan area. Assessments indicate the implementation of the water plan has been effective in achieving the plan's outcomes and advancing the sustainable management of water resources in the plan area.

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

  • effectiveness of water plan outcomes and strategies
  • current and emerging social, cultural and economic interests of local communities
  • incorporating best available science on water availability and the water needs for the environment
  • future water supply requirements to achieve water security, economic development and aspirations of local communities in alignment water availability
  • water trading, including identifying any barriers to accessing the existing trading framework to improve water resource utilisation and support economic development
  • water management arrangements for surface water, underground water and overland flow management
  • requirements under the Human Rights Act 2019
  • for the Warrego, Paroo and Nebine catchments the Murray-Darling Basin Plan 2012 and the Water Act 2007 (Commonwealth), and recommendations from their reviews.

The water plan review and replacement will be conducted consistent with the requirements of the Water 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 water plan review and replacement will also be a part of the delivery of the commitment to review each of the 23 Queensland water plans in the next 4 years.

In preparing a replacement water 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 water plan 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, community (including Aboriginal Peoples) and other interest groups will inform the development of the draft replacement water plan.

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

5. Enquiries and submission process

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

  • email WPBNWaterPlan@dlgwv.qld.gov.au
  • phone (07) 3181 5120 (during business hours)
  • post to
    Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers
    South Region, Water Planning
    Attention: Manager (MDB)
    PO Box 12898
    275 George Street
    BRISBANE  QLD  4003

Preliminary consultation submissions will close on 28 September 2026.

This notice is dated 14 July 2026.

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

Hamish Butler
Executive Director South Region (as the Chief Executive's delegate)