Water users throughout Queenslands Great Artesian Basin can have their say at upcoming public forums to discuss the development of a new water resource plan for the basin.

Minister for State Development and Minister for Natural Resources and Mines Dr Anthony Lynham said the Department of Natural Resources and Mines would host a series of public meetings throughout the basin, starting in Alpha on 7 October.

These public meetings provide local water users and other basin stakeholders the opportunity to get involved and have their say on key issues fundamental to delivering a new water plan, Dr Lynham said.

The current Great Artesian Basin Water Resource Plan 2006 is due to expire on 1 September 2016 so we need to develop a new science-based 10-year plan.

The new plan will provide a clear vision to sustainably manage one of Queenslands most important natural resources and support economic growth and jobs in rural and regional Queensland.

There is increasing demand for water in the basin so its important that we take a strategic approach to prevent negative impacts that could compromise other water users and the natural environment.

A statement of proposals was released on 7 September detailing key issues relevant to the development of the new plan.

I encourage anyone with an interest in the Great Artesian Basin to review the statement of proposals, attend the public forum in your local area and lodge a submission, he said.

For more information:

visit DNRM Queensland Site and use the link in the Im looking for panel
email Great Artesian Basin Coordinator
visit Contact us at DNRM for details to contact your local DNRM regional office.

Submissions on the statement of proposals will close at 5pm on 20 November 2015.