Making the most of scarce water resources

Recognising water’s national importance and the economic and environmental benefits that stem from its efficient and effective use and management:

a) governments and water dependent industries should adhere to their National Water Initiative and other reform commitments for continual improvement in the sustainable use and management of water resources

b) Western Australia should join the National Water Initiative as soon as possible

c) governments, communities and industries should work together to develop clear principles that allow for the sustainable development of water resources in northern Australia.

Government response

Recomendation 11(a)
Agree.

The Australian Government is working with the states, territories and the National Water Commission to implement the National Water Initiative through the Natural Resource Management Ministerial Council and its National Water Initiative Committee.

Recomendation 11(b)
Agree.

The Western Australian Government joined the National Water Initiative on 6 April 2006.

Recomendation 11(c)
Agree.

Development of water resources in Australia should be consistent with the principles agreed in the National Water Initiative and the 1994 Water Reform Framework, including that:

• new development must be economically viable and ecologically sustainable;
• water be priced based on the principles of full cost recovery and user pays;
• there be appropriate consultation: and
• adequate provision be made for environmental water needs.