The Department of Agriculture and Water Resources has announced four more consultation meetings, on proposed water efficiency projects.
The Federal government extended the consultation time for the neutrality test criteria, after complaints about the short notice, communities not being appropriately informed and that the addresses where the meetings were being held was not publicised on the web.
The four meetings will be held between November 14 and 16, in Mildura, Swan Hill, Balranald, NSW and Rochester.
DAWR Head of Water Paul Morris said the meetings were scheduled in response to community demand.
“These meetings are an important opportunity for locals to comment on draft criteria for Commonwealth-funded projects—or suggest alternative criteria,” Mr Morris said.
“I strongly encourage anybody with an interest in the future of the Basin to attend.
“As we set out to deliver water-saving infrastructure projects across the Basin, it’s essential that affected communities have the opportunity to tell us what success should look like."
Mr Morris said a full and accurate report of what communities were saying would be taking to a meeting of Basin Water ministers, in December.
Mr Morris said consultations held in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia had been well attended by community members including farmers, irrigators, business owners, industry groups and local council representatives.
“The consultation period for additional criteria for efficiency measures has now been extended to Friday, November 23,” Mr Morris said.
“Those who can’t attend in person can also provide feedback online through a short survey, upload a submission, or attend an online consultation (webinar) session on Monday 19 November.”
A list of current public meeting dates and locations, online feedback options and details for the webinar are available at https://haveyoursay.agriculture.gov.au/water-efficiency
Meeting details
Mildura:
Quality Hotel Mildura Grand, Seventh Street, Wednesday, November 14, 6:30pm.
Swan Hill:
Swan Hill Resort, 405-415 Campbell Street, Swan Hill, Thursday, November 15, midday.
Balranald:
Balranald Club, 116 Market Street, Balranald, NSW, Thursday, November 15, 6pm
Rochester:
Rochester Golf Club, Black Culvert Road (Off Northern Highway), Rochester, Friday, November 16, midday
Andrew Miller
I'm a general reporter with Stock & Land, with a special interest in irrigation issues. I completed my cadetship, with the Age, in 1980. Over my career, I've worked for ABC radio news (Mt Isa, Qld) and at provincial and suburban newspapers.
I'm a general reporter with Stock & Land, with a special interest in irrigation issues. I completed my cadetship, with the Age, in 1980. Over my career, I've worked for ABC radio news (Mt Isa, Qld) and at provincial and suburban newspapers.
