- New Barron Water Plan announced for Far North Queensland
- Plan provides certainty for the community, business and industry and balances environmental and consumptive needs
- An additional 20,550 megalitres of unallocated water identified in the new water plan
- Two years of community consultation and scientific assessment has shaped new plan
The updated Barron Water Plan has now been finalised, following a two-year process of rigorous scientific assessment and consultation.
The new plan, which replaces the Barron Water Plan 2002, is underpinned by 20 years of scientific data and is the product of more than 30 consultative meetings with water users and stakeholders, including local government, First Nations Peoples, irrigators, environment and catchment care groups, tourism operators and industry experts.
Water in the Barron catchment is crucial for urban supply, agriculture, fishing, tourism, cultural values and hydro-electric power generation.
The catchment holds significant environmental importance as it flows to the Great Barrier Reef. The new Barron Water Plan maintains environmental protections and considers the best available science, including the effects of climate change on future water availability.
An additional 20,550 megalitres of unallocated water from the catchment will meet new and emerging demands for water and support regional development.
The Department of Regional Development, Manufacturing and Water will engage with stakeholders in the coming months on the next steps for unlocking this reserve.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Water, Glenn Butcher:
“Water plans make sure we strike the right balance between water for the environment and water for consumptive use.
“When it comes to water management, I will always be informed by the science and will always listen to experts.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Cook, Cynthia Lui:
“The new water plan also ensures that First Nations Peoples have continued access to water for cultural, social and economic purposes.
“Water is so critical for our region and I’m pleased this water planning process has identified more water to meet new and emerging demands.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Barron River, Craig Crawford:
“We have rapid population growth in Cairns and guaranteed water supply is the lifeblood to a sustainable future.
“The additional 20,550 megalitres of water identified in the new plan will greatly benefit our community.”
Further Information:
The new Barron Water Plan commences on 23 June 2023 and can be viewed at DRDMW website.
