The NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment is seeking expressions of interest in new groundwater allocation releases available for 40 water sources across NSW, urging interested water users to lodge an application.
A/Executive Director Programs and Services, Amanda Chadwick, said the new allocations will support both existing and new water users at a time when drought is gripping much of the state.
“After ensuring long term average extraction limits can be met and water is reserved for the environment, the NSW Government has determined there are water sources available and we’re calling on water users to register their interest in tendering for additional licences,” Ms Chadwick said.
“This opportunity is open to new and existing water licence holders and will support regional businesses and industry by providing much needed access to available water resources.
“This is the third tender registration of interest period process for this unassigned groundwater following the initial successful releases of unassigned groundwater in May 2017 and October 2018,” she said.
Ms Chadwick said making the water available through a competitive process will ensure its productive use through a fair and transparent process.
“We’ve contacted water users who’ve previously registered interest in controlled allocations and will continue to take new registrations until 6 November 2019.
“Assessment of all registrations will consider the availability of water, the price being offered per unit share of water and the number of registrations submitted for each groundwater source,” Ms Chadwick said.
Information to submit a controlled allocation application form can be found at – www.industry.nsw.gov.au/water/licensing-trade/licences/controlled/order-2017
