Reviewing the Whitsunday water plan

We are reviewing and replacing the Whitsunday water plan – set to expire on 1 December 2025 – to make sure the region’s long-term water needs can be best met and managed into the future.

The coastal basin of the Don, the northern area of the Proserpine Basin and southern area of the O'Connell basin do not fall under a water plan. We think water in these areas would be better managed if they were included in the Whitsunday water plan area.

Water in the region is mostly taken to support agriculture, mining, tourism and aquaculture and supports growing communities and towns. Expanding existing industries and new or emerging industries in the region, will have impacts for water needs and use.

To help us find ways to best meet the growing demands for water in the existing plan area and the Don and O'Connell basins, while making sure existing water users, cultural values and environmental water needs remain supported, we'd like to hear what you think.

How to give your feedback

We want your feedback on our list of key topics. Let us know what other things you think we should consider.

To give your feedback, first review the Whitsunday water plan.

Second, read through the key topics:

• About the Whitsunday water plan
• How water is managed now
• Updating the science
• Climate resilience
• Community connection and water
• Improving outcomes
• Identifying unallocated water
• Growing water needs

Lastly, have your say by sending a written submission to us by 31 October 2025.

We will meet directly with the community throughout the review process. If you're interested in helping shape the new water plan by being part of the Whitsunday water plan working group let us know when you submit your feedback.