Deficiencies in the existing water law and governance framework in Western Australia
Disclaimer: This document provides legal information only and does not replace the need for professional legal advice in individual cases. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, the EDO does not accept any responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from any error in this document or use of this work.
EDO considers water law and governance in WA to be amongst the poorest in the country. Reform of WA’s water regulation framework is needed to ensure the framework aligns with current science and protects WA’s water resources, particularly in the face of significant threats such as climate change and significant extraction from activities such as mining, agriculture and data centres operation. Reform is also needed for the WA Government to meet its existing and future commitments under domestic and international law.
This briefing note outlines key issues with water law and governance in WA, and recommendations for reform, including in relation to:
• water plans,
• water licensing,
• water metering and monitoring,
• community consultation,
• First Nations water access, management and ownership, and
• compliance and enforcement.
For more information, please contact [email protected].
