The Great Artesian Basin Strategic Management Plan has been updated to align more closely with national strategies and frameworks, including the National Water Initiative.
Encompassing new technical knowledge, improved sustainable water resource management practices, and changing social and political contexts, the new Basin plan is described as building “on the success of the first Strategic Management Plan of 2000”.
The Great Artesian Basin is one of the largest underground freshwater resources in the world, and helps support 180,000 people, 7600 businesses, and 120 towns across Queensland, South Australia, the Northern Territory, and NSW.
To support the updated plan’s delivery, the Federal Department of Agriculture, Water and the Environment (DAWE) is establishing a new committee to advise on whole-of-basin policies and initiatives.
The Great Artesian Basin Stakeholder Advisory Committee will comprise individuals from industry, basin communities and “other stakeholders passionate about this important national resource” – and will provide advice on the sustainability of the artesian and sub-artesian water resources, and the environmental, economic, social, and cultural significance of the water.
Expression of interest for appointment to the committee may be submitted up until 21 August.