This plan defines which surface and underground waters in the Border Rivers and Moonie areas it covers and sets environmental, social, cultural and economic outcomes. It prescribes how water is measured, allocated, licensed, traded and converted from existing permits, and sets node‑based performance tests tied to computer models (e.g. eWater Source, MODFLOW).
The chief executive decides measurements, allocations, conversions and licence conditions (secs 25, 36, 72). Licence‑holders and applicants bear costs for meters, reports, compliance and any works limits; record‑keeping and modelling determine whether statutory objectives are met (secs 88, 37, 25).
This instrument is the Water Plan (Border Rivers and Moonie) 2019. Mechanically it (a) defines the plan area and the waters to which the plan applies (s6, s8); (b) states water plan outcomes (economic, social, cultural, environmental) and attendant measures to achieve them (pts 3-5, notably ss20-24 and ss25-27); (c) prescribes environmental flow objectives and water allocation security objectives together with the performance indicators and modelling methods used to assess those objectives (pts 5 and 5-div.1/2; ss28-31; s32; schedule 7); (d) imposes limits and conditions on who may take overland flow, surface and underground water, and in what circumstances (pt 8; ss38-42); (e) sets out conversion and allocation processes for existing authorisations into water allocations, and rules for particular licence types (pt 10 and pt 11; ss72-79; ss82-87); and (f) requires a water management protocol and monitoring, measurement and reporting tasks to be undertaken by the chief executive (ss25, 89).
The plan assigns decision-making power primarily to the chief executive of the administering department. The chief executive must publish reports (s25(2)), prepare a monitoring, evaluation and reporting strategy (s25(6)), prepare a water management protocol (s89), and take specified procedural steps when accepting or granting certain licence applications (ss45-46, 62). The plan also fixes technical assessment methods: nodes A-K are located using the eWater Source program and nodes L-N using MODFLOW (s17); the model computer program simulations must be used to assess consistency of decisions with the environmental flow and allocation-security objectives (s37).
The plan prescribes enforceable constraints on decision-makers. For example, decisions must not increase the average volume of water that may be taken under the plan (s35), and decisions about allocation or management must be consistent with the environmental flow objectives and water allocation security objectives (s36). Measurement and reporting requirements are time‑bound: all water allocations were to be measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022; specific underground water licences (Border Rivers Fractured Rock and Border Rivers Alluvium) are to be measured by 31 December 2025 (s25(1)). The plan replaces the 2003 Border Rivers and Moonie water plans (s92).
Current sections
Direct links to the current provisions in Water Plan (Border Rivers and Moonie) 2019.
143
pt.1
Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1
Short title
sec.1 Short title
This plan may be cited as the Water Plan (Border Rivers and Moonie) 2019 .
sec.2
Purposes of plan
sec.2 Purposes of plan
The purposes of this plan are to—
define the availability of water to which this plan applies; and
provide a framework for sustainably managing water to which this plan applies; and
identify priorities and mechanisms for dealing with the future water requirements in the plan area; and
provide a framework for managing water allocations; and
provide a framework for reversing, where practicable, the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
(a) define the availability of water to which this plan applies; and
(b) provide a framework for sustainably managing water to which this plan applies; and
(c) identify priorities and mechanisms for dealing with the future water requirements in the plan area; and
(d) provide a framework for managing water allocations; and
(e) provide a framework for reversing, where practicable, the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
sec.3
Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 15 defines particular words used in this plan.
sec.4
Meaning of surface water
sec.4 Meaning of surface water
Surface water is—
water in a watercourse or lake; or
water in a spring not connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies; or
overland flow water, other than water in a spring connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies.
(a) water in a watercourse or lake; or
(b) water in a spring not connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies; or
(c) overland flow water, other than water in a spring connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies.
sec.5
References to latitudes and longitudes
sec.5 References to latitudes and longitudes
The latitudes and longitudes used to describe a location mentioned in this plan are worked out using GDA94.
In this section—
GDA94 means the Geocentric Datum of Australia, commonly called ‘GDA 94’, notified in the Commonwealth Government Gazette No. GN 35 on 6 September 1995, at page 3369.
(sec.5-ssec.1) The latitudes and longitudes used to describe a location mentioned in this plan are worked out using GDA94.
(sec.5-ssec.2) In this section— GDA94 means the Geocentric Datum of Australia, commonly called ‘GDA 94’, notified in the Commonwealth Government Gazette No. GN 35 on 6 September 1995, at page 3369.
pt.2
Plan area, water to which plan applies and other matters
Plan area, water to which plan applies and other matters
sec.6
Water to which plan applies— Act , s 43
sec.6 Water to which plan applies— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (a) of the Act , this plan applies to the following water in the plan area—
surface water;
underground water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 does not apply.
(a) surface water;
(b) underground water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 does not apply.
sec.7
Underground water declared to be overland flow water— Act , s 1006A
sec.7 Underground water declared to be overland flow water— Act , s 1006A
For section 1006A (1) of the Act , underground water to which this plan applies is declared to be overland flow water if the underground water is—
from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and
The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
not more than 6m below the surface.
Subsection (1) does not apply to underground water the chief executive is satisfied is not hydraulically connected to overland flow water.
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 1006A (1) of the Act , underground water to which this plan applies is declared to be overland flow water if the underground water is— from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit. not more than 6m below the surface.
(sec.7-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to underground water the chief executive is satisfied is not hydraulically connected to overland flow water.
(a) from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and Note— The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
(b) not more than 6m below the surface.
sec.8
Plan area
sec.8 Plan area
This plan applies to the area shown as the plan area on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
The plan area is divided into catchments.
A reference in this plan to a catchment by name is a reference to the catchment given that name on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
(sec.8-ssec.1) This plan applies to the area shown as the plan area on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
(sec.8-ssec.2) The plan area is divided into catchments.
(sec.8-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to a catchment by name is a reference to the catchment given that name on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
sec.9
Water supply schemes and water supply scheme zones
sec.9 Water supply schemes and water supply scheme zones
Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 is a water supply scheme for this plan.
Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme zone on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 , and named and described in schedule 2 , part 2 , columns 2 and 3, is a water supply scheme zone.
(sec.9-ssec.1) Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 is a water supply scheme for this plan.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme zone on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 , and named and described in schedule 2 , part 2 , columns 2 and 3, is a water supply scheme zone.
sec.10
Water management areas— Act , sch 4
sec.10 Water management areas— Act , sch 4
For schedule 4 of the Act , definition water management area , paragraph (b) , each part of the plan area shown as a water management area on a map in schedule 3 is a water management area.
A reference in this plan to a water management area by name is a reference to the water management area given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 1 of a table in schedule 3 .
For this section—
the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as—
the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as—
the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(sec.10-ssec.1) For schedule 4 of the Act , definition water management area , paragraph (b) , each part of the plan area shown as a water management area on a map in schedule 3 is a water management area.
(sec.10-ssec.2) A reference in this plan to a water management area by name is a reference to the water management area given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 1 of a table in schedule 3 .
(sec.10-ssec.3) For this section— the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(a) the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— (i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and (ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and (iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
(ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
(iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(b) the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— (i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and (ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
(ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
(ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
(iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
(ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
sec.11
Water management area zones
sec.11 Water management area zones
A water management area has 1 or more water management area zones.
Each part of the plan area shown as a water management area zone on a map in schedule 3 , and named and described in columns 2 and 3 of a table in schedule 3 , is a water management area zone .
A reference in this plan to a water management area zone by name is a reference to the water management area zone given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 2 of a table in schedule 3 .
(sec.11-ssec.1) A water management area has 1 or more water management area zones.
(sec.11-ssec.2) Each part of the plan area shown as a water management area zone on a map in schedule 3 , and named and described in columns 2 and 3 of a table in schedule 3 , is a water management area zone .
(sec.11-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to a water management area zone by name is a reference to the water management area zone given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 2 of a table in schedule 3 .
sec.12
Underground water management area
sec.12 Underground water management area
The part of the plan area shown as the underground water management area on the map in schedule 4 is the underground water management area .
sec.13
Underground water sub-areas
sec.13 Underground water sub-areas
Certain parts of the underground water management area are divided into underground water sub-areas.
A part of the underground water management area shown on the map in schedule 5 as an underground water sub-area is an underground water sub-area .
A reference in this plan to an underground water sub-area by name is a reference to the underground water sub-area given that name in schedule 5 .
(sec.13-ssec.1) Certain parts of the underground water management area are divided into underground water sub-areas.
(sec.13-ssec.2) A part of the underground water management area shown on the map in schedule 5 as an underground water sub-area is an underground water sub-area .
(sec.13-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to an underground water sub-area by name is a reference to the underground water sub-area given that name in schedule 5 .
sec.14
Underground water units and underground water sub-units
sec.14 Underground water units and underground water sub-units
The underground water management area includes the following aquifers (each an underground water unit )—
the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
the Border Rivers Alluvium;
the St George Alluvium (shallow);
the St George Alluvium (deep);
the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
The Border Rivers Alluvium, in the Border Rivers Alluvium underground water sub-area, is made up of the following aquifers (each an underground water sub-unit )—
for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow);
for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
(sec.14-ssec.1) The underground water management area includes the following aquifers (each an underground water unit )— the Border Rivers Fractured Rock; the Border Rivers Alluvium; the St George Alluvium (shallow); the St George Alluvium (deep); the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin; the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(sec.14-ssec.2) The Border Rivers Alluvium, in the Border Rivers Alluvium underground water sub-area, is made up of the following aquifers (each an underground water sub-unit )— for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow); for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
(a) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
(b) the Border Rivers Alluvium;
(c) the St George Alluvium (shallow);
(d) the St George Alluvium (deep);
(e) the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
(f) the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(a) for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow);
(b) for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
sec.15
Underground water zones
sec.15 Underground water zones
Certain underground water sub-areas are divided into underground water zones.
A part of an underground water sub-area, shown on the map in schedule 6 as an underground water zone, is an underground water zone .
(sec.15-ssec.1) Certain underground water sub-areas are divided into underground water zones.
(sec.15-ssec.2) A part of an underground water sub-area, shown on the map in schedule 6 as an underground water zone, is an underground water zone .
sec.16
Trading zones— Act , s 43
sec.16 Trading zones— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (e) (i) of the Act , the following zones are trading zones for water allocations to which this plan applies—
a water supply scheme zone;
a water management area zone;
an underground water zone.
(a) a water supply scheme zone;
(b) a water management area zone;
(c) an underground water zone.
sec.17
Nodes
sec.17 Nodes
A node is a point in the plan area.
The modelled location of each node is identified, by a letter, on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 and is described in schedule 1 , part 2 .
A node may be referred to in this plan by its letter.
The actual location of each node is set by—
for nodes A to K—the eWater Source computer program; or
for nodes L to N—the MODFLOW computer program.
(sec.17-ssec.1) A node is a point in the plan area.
(sec.17-ssec.2) The modelled location of each node is identified, by a letter, on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 and is described in schedule 1 , part 2 .
(sec.17-ssec.3) A node may be referred to in this plan by its letter.
(sec.17-ssec.4) The actual location of each node is set by— for nodes A to K—the eWater Source computer program; or for nodes L to N—the MODFLOW computer program.
(a) for nodes A to K—the eWater Source computer program; or
(b) for nodes L to N—the MODFLOW computer program.
sec.18
Information about areas
sec.18 Information about areas
The exact location of the boundaries of each of the following is held in digital electronic form by the department and may be accessed at each office of the department—
the plan area;
a water supply scheme;
a water supply scheme zone;
a water management area;
a water management area zone;
the underground water management area;
an underground water sub-area;
an underground water zone.
The location of each office of the department is available on the department’s website.
(a) the plan area;
(b) a water supply scheme;
(c) a water supply scheme zone;
(d) a water management area;
(e) a water management area zone;
(f) the underground water management area;
(g) an underground water sub-area;
(h) an underground water zone.
pt.3
Water plan outcomes
Water plan outcomes
sec.19
Purpose of part
sec.19 Purpose of part
This part states, for section 43 (1) (b) of the Act , the water plan outcomes for this plan.
sec.20
General water plan outcome
sec.20 General water plan outcome
A water plan outcome for this plan is that water to which this plan applies is to be allocated and managed in a way that—
recognises the natural state of watercourses, lakes, springs and aquifers has changed because of the taking of, or interference with, water; and
is consistent with the relevant version of the Basin Plan, including, for example, the sustainable diversion limits; and
is consistent with water sharing agreements and commitments between the State and New South Wales; and
seeks to achieve a balance between—
the economic water plan outcomes stated in section 21 ; and
the social water plan outcomes stated in section 22 ; and
the cultural water plan outcomes stated in section 23 ; and
the environmental water plan outcomes stated in section 24 ; and
promotes improved understanding of—
matters affecting the flow-related, and underground water dependent, health of ecosystems, including springs, in the plan area; and
the flow requirements of ecosystems in the plan area; and
the water required for social, spiritual, economic, environmental and cultural uses of water by Aboriginal people; and
the water required to deliver social and economic benefits to communities in the plan area; and
the impact of climate change on water availability; and
the actions required to reverse the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
(a) recognises the natural state of watercourses, lakes, springs and aquifers has changed because of the taking of, or interference with, water; and
(b) is consistent with the relevant version of the Basin Plan, including, for example, the sustainable diversion limits; and
(c) is consistent with water sharing agreements and commitments between the State and New South Wales; and
(d) seeks to achieve a balance between— (i) the economic water plan outcomes stated in section 21 ; and (ii) the social water plan outcomes stated in section 22 ; and (iii) the cultural water plan outcomes stated in section 23 ; and (iv) the environmental water plan outcomes stated in section 24 ; and
(i) the economic water plan outcomes stated in section 21 ; and
(ii) the social water plan outcomes stated in section 22 ; and
(iii) the cultural water plan outcomes stated in section 23 ; and
(iv) the environmental water plan outcomes stated in section 24 ; and
(e) promotes improved understanding of— (i) matters affecting the flow-related, and underground water dependent, health of ecosystems, including springs, in the plan area; and (ii) the flow requirements of ecosystems in the plan area; and (iii) the water required for social, spiritual, economic, environmental and cultural uses of water by Aboriginal people; and (iv) the water required to deliver social and economic benefits to communities in the plan area; and (v) the impact of climate change on water availability; and (vi) the actions required to reverse the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
(i) matters affecting the flow-related, and underground water dependent, health of ecosystems, including springs, in the plan area; and
(ii) the flow requirements of ecosystems in the plan area; and
(iii) the water required for social, spiritual, economic, environmental and cultural uses of water by Aboriginal people; and
(iv) the water required to deliver social and economic benefits to communities in the plan area; and
(v) the impact of climate change on water availability; and
(vi) the actions required to reverse the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
(i) the economic water plan outcomes stated in section 21 ; and
(ii) the social water plan outcomes stated in section 22 ; and
(iii) the cultural water plan outcomes stated in section 23 ; and
(iv) the environmental water plan outcomes stated in section 24 ; and
(i) matters affecting the flow-related, and underground water dependent, health of ecosystems, including springs, in the plan area; and
(ii) the flow requirements of ecosystems in the plan area; and
(iii) the water required for social, spiritual, economic, environmental and cultural uses of water by Aboriginal people; and
(iv) the water required to deliver social and economic benefits to communities in the plan area; and
(v) the impact of climate change on water availability; and
(vi) the actions required to reverse the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
sec.21
Water plan outcomes—economic
sec.21 Water plan outcomes—economic
The economic water plan outcomes for this plan are—
to maintain the probability of being able to take water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement; and
to maintain and, if possible, improve the productive base of underground water to which this plan applies; and
to improve and support the effective and efficient operation of the market in water allocations and relocatable water licences; and
to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for stock purposes and tourism in the plan area; and
to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for industries dependent on water resources in the plan area; and
to maintain and, if possible, improve flood flows to support grazing activities in the plan area; and
to make water to which this plan applies available to support the economic and social aspirations of Aboriginal people.
In this section—
relocatable water licence means a water licence that the water management protocol for this plan states may be relocated, in whole or in part, under section 126 (1) (a) of the Act .
(sec.21-ssec.1) The economic water plan outcomes for this plan are— to maintain the probability of being able to take water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement; and to maintain and, if possible, improve the productive base of underground water to which this plan applies; and to improve and support the effective and efficient operation of the market in water allocations and relocatable water licences; and to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for stock purposes and tourism in the plan area; and to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for industries dependent on water resources in the plan area; and to maintain and, if possible, improve flood flows to support grazing activities in the plan area; and to make water to which this plan applies available to support the economic and social aspirations of Aboriginal people.
(sec.21-ssec.2) In this section— relocatable water licence means a water licence that the water management protocol for this plan states may be relocated, in whole or in part, under section 126 (1) (a) of the Act .
(a) to maintain the probability of being able to take water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement; and
(b) to maintain and, if possible, improve the productive base of underground water to which this plan applies; and
(c) to improve and support the effective and efficient operation of the market in water allocations and relocatable water licences; and
(d) to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for stock purposes and tourism in the plan area; and
(e) to maintain the availability of water to which this plan applies for industries dependent on water resources in the plan area; and
(f) to maintain and, if possible, improve flood flows to support grazing activities in the plan area; and
(g) to make water to which this plan applies available to support the economic and social aspirations of Aboriginal people.
sec.22
Water plan outcomes—social
sec.22 Water plan outcomes—social
The social water plan outcomes for this plan are—
to maintain—
the availability of water to which this plan applies for the supply of urban water to towns and communities dependent on the water resources of the plan area; and
the flows of water to which this plan applies that support water-related aesthetic, cultural and recreational values; and
to provide water to which this plan applies for domestic purposes in the plan area.
(a) to maintain— (i) the availability of water to which this plan applies for the supply of urban water to towns and communities dependent on the water resources of the plan area; and (ii) the flows of water to which this plan applies that support water-related aesthetic, cultural and recreational values; and
(i) the availability of water to which this plan applies for the supply of urban water to towns and communities dependent on the water resources of the plan area; and
(ii) the flows of water to which this plan applies that support water-related aesthetic, cultural and recreational values; and
(b) to provide water to which this plan applies for domestic purposes in the plan area.
(i) the availability of water to which this plan applies for the supply of urban water to towns and communities dependent on the water resources of the plan area; and
(ii) the flows of water to which this plan applies that support water-related aesthetic, cultural and recreational values; and
sec.23
Water plan outcomes—cultural
sec.23 Water plan outcomes—cultural
The cultural water plan outcomes for this plan are to maintain flows of water to which this plan applies that support the water-related cultural, spiritual, social and environmental values of Aboriginal people.
sec.24
Water plan outcomes—environmental
sec.24 Water plan outcomes—environmental
The environmental water plan outcomes for this plan are—
to maintain the probability of being able to take surface water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement held only for providing benefit to the environment; and
a water entitlement held by CEWH
a water entitlement held only for protecting and restoring the health of Murray-Darling Basin ecosystems
to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support—
waterholes as refugia; and
river channels; and
river-forming processes; and
to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support floodplain ecosystems within and downstream of the plan area, including—
the Macintyre River floodplain downstream of Goondiwindi; and
channel-connected wetlands associated with that floodplain; and
to minimise changes to flows of water in the plan area that support fish movement and fish recruitment; and
to minimise adverse environmental impacts, relating to water to which this plan applies, caused by the operation of infrastructure in the plan area; and
bank erosion, thermal alteration of waters, degradation of water quality
to minimise water quality degradation in relation to—
for surface water to which this plan applies—flow; and
for underground water to which this plan applies—flow and pressure; and
to maintain an underground water regime in the plan area that supports ecosystems dependent on underground water to which this plan applies.
In this section—
fish recruitment means the successful development and growth of a juvenile fish to a stage at which the fish has the ability to reproduce.
underground water regime means the profile of underground water levels, hydraulic head and direction of underground water flow as represented by water levels at nodes L, M and N.
waterhole means a part of a watercourse that contains water after the watercourse stops flowing, other than a part of the watercourse that is within the storage area of a dam or weir on the watercourse.
(sec.24-ssec.1) The environmental water plan outcomes for this plan are— to maintain the probability of being able to take surface water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement held only for providing benefit to the environment; and a water entitlement held by CEWH a water entitlement held only for protecting and restoring the health of Murray-Darling Basin ecosystems to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support— waterholes as refugia; and river channels; and river-forming processes; and to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support floodplain ecosystems within and downstream of the plan area, including— the Macintyre River floodplain downstream of Goondiwindi; and channel-connected wetlands associated with that floodplain; and to minimise changes to flows of water in the plan area that support fish movement and fish recruitment; and to minimise adverse environmental impacts, relating to water to which this plan applies, caused by the operation of infrastructure in the plan area; and bank erosion, thermal alteration of waters, degradation of water quality to minimise water quality degradation in relation to— for surface water to which this plan applies—flow; and for underground water to which this plan applies—flow and pressure; and to maintain an underground water regime in the plan area that supports ecosystems dependent on underground water to which this plan applies.
(sec.24-ssec.2) In this section— fish recruitment means the successful development and growth of a juvenile fish to a stage at which the fish has the ability to reproduce. underground water regime means the profile of underground water levels, hydraulic head and direction of underground water flow as represented by water levels at nodes L, M and N. waterhole means a part of a watercourse that contains water after the watercourse stops flowing, other than a part of the watercourse that is within the storage area of a dam or weir on the watercourse.
(a) to maintain the probability of being able to take surface water to which this plan applies under a water entitlement held only for providing benefit to the environment; and Examples of a water entitlement held only for providing benefit to the environment— • a water entitlement held by CEWH • a water entitlement held only for protecting and restoring the health of Murray-Darling Basin ecosystems
• a water entitlement held by CEWH
• a water entitlement held only for protecting and restoring the health of Murray-Darling Basin ecosystems
(b) to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support— (i) waterholes as refugia; and (ii) river channels; and (iii) river-forming processes; and
(i) waterholes as refugia; and
(ii) river channels; and
(iii) river-forming processes; and
(c) to maintain and, if possible, improve flows of water to which this plan applies that support floodplain ecosystems within and downstream of the plan area, including— (i) the Macintyre River floodplain downstream of Goondiwindi; and (ii) channel-connected wetlands associated with that floodplain; and
(i) the Macintyre River floodplain downstream of Goondiwindi; and
(ii) channel-connected wetlands associated with that floodplain; and
(d) to minimise changes to flows of water in the plan area that support fish movement and fish recruitment; and
(e) to minimise adverse environmental impacts, relating to water to which this plan applies, caused by the operation of infrastructure in the plan area; and Examples of adverse environmental impacts— bank erosion, thermal alteration of waters, degradation of water quality
(f) to minimise water quality degradation in relation to— (i) for surface water to which this plan applies—flow; and (ii) for underground water to which this plan applies—flow and pressure; and
(i) for surface water to which this plan applies—flow; and
(ii) for underground water to which this plan applies—flow and pressure; and
(g) to maintain an underground water regime in the plan area that supports ecosystems dependent on underground water to which this plan applies.
• a water entitlement held by CEWH
• a water entitlement held only for protecting and restoring the health of Murray-Darling Basin ecosystems
(i) waterholes as refugia; and
(ii) river channels; and
(iii) river-forming processes; and
(i) the Macintyre River floodplain downstream of Goondiwindi; and
(ii) channel-connected wetlands associated with that floodplain; and
(i) for surface water to which this plan applies—flow; and
(ii) for underground water to which this plan applies—flow and pressure; and
pt.4
Measures for achieving water plan outcomes
Measures for achieving water plan outcomes
sec.25
General measures that contribute to achieving water plan outcomes
sec.25 General measures that contribute to achieving water plan outcomes
Measures that contribute to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 (b) , 21 (1) (a) and (b) , 23 and 24 (1) (a) to (d) , (f) and (g) are—
all water allocations are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022; and
all water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies in the following underground water units are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2025—
the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
the Border Rivers Alluvium; and
all relevant taking of overland flow water is measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022.
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 20 (b) is the annual publication, by the chief executive, of a water use report that includes information about compliance with the sustainable diversion limits.
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 (b) and 21 (1) (a) is the identification, by the chief executive by 30 June 2024, of works associated with the taking of water, declared to be overland flow water under section 7 , for purposes other than stock purposes or domestic purposes.
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 20 (c) is each determination of environmental share made by the chief executive is recorded and published at least annually.
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 21 (1) (e) is the granting, by the chief executive within 5 years of the commencement, of water entitlements for the taking of unallocated water, reserved in the Stanthorpe water management area under this plan for the purpose of ‘any’, for achieving that water plan outcome.
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 to 24 is that a monitoring, evaluation and reporting strategy, to support assessment of the effectiveness of this plan and its implementation, is developed by the chief executive by 1 July 2020.
In this section—
environmental share means environmental share of water to which this plan applies under access arrangements for unsupplemented surface water in water sharing agreements and commitments between the State and New South Wales.
relevant taking , of overland flow water, means taking of overland flow water—
permitted under section 39 (1) (a) or (c) ; and
in any of the following water management area zones—
the Barwon zone;
the Callandoon zone;
the Lower Weir zone;
the Upper Weir zone;
the Macintyre zone;
zone A in the Moonie water management area;
zone B in the Moonie water management area;
zone C in the Moonie water management area;
zone D in the Moonie water management area.
(sec.25-ssec.1) Measures that contribute to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 (b) , 21 (1) (a) and (b) , 23 and 24 (1) (a) to (d) , (f) and (g) are— all water allocations are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022; and all water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies in the following underground water units are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2025— the Border Rivers Fractured Rock; the Border Rivers Alluvium; and all relevant taking of overland flow water is measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022.
(sec.25-ssec.2) A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 20 (b) is the annual publication, by the chief executive, of a water use report that includes information about compliance with the sustainable diversion limits.
(sec.25-ssec.3) A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 (b) and 21 (1) (a) is the identification, by the chief executive by 30 June 2024, of works associated with the taking of water, declared to be overland flow water under section 7 , for purposes other than stock purposes or domestic purposes.
(sec.25-ssec.4) A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 20 (c) is each determination of environmental share made by the chief executive is recorded and published at least annually.
(sec.25-ssec.5) A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 21 (1) (e) is the granting, by the chief executive within 5 years of the commencement, of water entitlements for the taking of unallocated water, reserved in the Stanthorpe water management area under this plan for the purpose of ‘any’, for achieving that water plan outcome.
(sec.25-ssec.6) A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 to 24 is that a monitoring, evaluation and reporting strategy, to support assessment of the effectiveness of this plan and its implementation, is developed by the chief executive by 1 July 2020.
(sec.25-ssec.7) In this section— environmental share means environmental share of water to which this plan applies under access arrangements for unsupplemented surface water in water sharing agreements and commitments between the State and New South Wales. relevant taking , of overland flow water, means taking of overland flow water— permitted under section 39 (1) (a) or (c) ; and in any of the following water management area zones— the Barwon zone; the Callandoon zone; the Lower Weir zone; the Upper Weir zone; the Macintyre zone; zone A in the Moonie water management area; zone B in the Moonie water management area; zone C in the Moonie water management area; zone D in the Moonie water management area.
(a) all water allocations are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022; and
(b) all water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies in the following underground water units are measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2025— (i) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock; (ii) the Border Rivers Alluvium; and
(i) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
(ii) the Border Rivers Alluvium; and
(c) all relevant taking of overland flow water is measured, as directed by the chief executive, by 31 December 2022.
(i) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
(ii) the Border Rivers Alluvium; and
(a) permitted under section 39 (1) (a) or (c) ; and
(b) in any of the following water management area zones— (i) the Barwon zone; (ii) the Callandoon zone; (iii) the Lower Weir zone; (iv) the Upper Weir zone; (v) the Macintyre zone; (vi) zone A in the Moonie water management area; (vii) zone B in the Moonie water management area; (viii) zone C in the Moonie water management area; (ix) zone D in the Moonie water management area.
(i) the Barwon zone;
(ii) the Callandoon zone;
(iii) the Lower Weir zone;
(iv) the Upper Weir zone;
(v) the Macintyre zone;
(vi) zone A in the Moonie water management area;
(vii) zone B in the Moonie water management area;
(viii) zone C in the Moonie water management area;
(ix) zone D in the Moonie water management area.
(i) the Barwon zone;
(ii) the Callandoon zone;
(iii) the Lower Weir zone;
(iv) the Upper Weir zone;
(v) the Macintyre zone;
(vi) zone A in the Moonie water management area;
(vii) zone B in the Moonie water management area;
(viii) zone C in the Moonie water management area;
(ix) zone D in the Moonie water management area.
sec.26
Measures that contribute to achieving particular economic water plan outcomes
sec.26 Measures that contribute to achieving particular economic water plan outcomes
Measures that contribute to achieving the water plan outcome stated in section 21 (1) (c) are—
information about the number, value and volume of water entitlement trades is collected and analysed; and
opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the market in tradeable water entitlements are analysed; and
the information and analysis mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) are published by the chief executive within 5 years of the commencement; and
the establishment by the chief executive, within 2 years of the commencement, of a process for the granting of water entitlements for the taking of unallocated water, reserved in the Stanthorpe water management area under this plan, for achieving the water plan outcome mentioned in section 21 (1) (g) .
See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
(a) information about the number, value and volume of water entitlement trades is collected and analysed; and
(b) opportunities to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the market in tradeable water entitlements are analysed; and
(c) the information and analysis mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) are published by the chief executive within 5 years of the commencement; and
(d) the establishment by the chief executive, within 2 years of the commencement, of a process for the granting of water entitlements for the taking of unallocated water, reserved in the Stanthorpe water management area under this plan, for achieving the water plan outcome mentioned in section 21 (1) (g) . Note— See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
sec.27
Measure that contributes to achieving particular cultural water plan outcomes
sec.27 Measure that contributes to achieving particular cultural water plan outcomes
A measure that contributes to achieving the water plan outcomes stated in sections 20 (e) (iii) and 23 is the publishing by the chief executive, within 5 years of the commencement, of a report on the flow requirements to support cultural values and uses, informed by engagement with Aboriginal people.
pt.5
Objectives and performance indicators
Objectives and performance indicators
pt.5-div.1
Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators
Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators
sec.28
Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators for surface water— Act , s 43
sec.28 Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators for surface water— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (d) of the Act , the environmental flow objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 1 .
The performance indicators for the environmental flow objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 1 .
(sec.28-ssec.1) For section 43 (1) (d) of the Act , the environmental flow objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 1 .
(sec.28-ssec.2) The performance indicators for the environmental flow objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 1 .
sec.29
Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators for underground water— Act , s 43
sec.29 Environmental flow objectives and performance indicators for underground water— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (d) of the Act , the environmental flow objectives for underground water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 2 .
The performance indicators for the environmental flow objectives for underground water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 2 .
(sec.29-ssec.1) For section 43 (1) (d) of the Act , the environmental flow objectives for underground water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 2 .
(sec.29-ssec.2) The performance indicators for the environmental flow objectives for underground water to which this plan applies are stated in schedule 7 , part 2 .
pt.5-div.2
Water allocation security objectives and performance indicators
Water allocation security objectives and performance indicators
sec.30
Water allocation security objectives and performance indicators for surface water— Act , s 43
sec.30 Water allocation security objectives and performance indicators for surface water— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (e) (ii) of the Act , the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are that—
the performance ratio, for the high priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and
the performance ratio, for the medium priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and
the performance ratio, for each water allocation group mentioned in schedule 8 , column 3, is not less than 99% of what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement.
The performance indicators for the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are the performance ratios for each group of water allocations mentioned in subsection (1) .
In this section—
high priority group means all water allocations that state they are in the ‘high priority group’.
medium priority group means all water allocations that state they are in the ‘medium priority group’.
(sec.30-ssec.1) For section 43 (1) (e) (ii) of the Act , the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are that— the performance ratio, for the high priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and the performance ratio, for the medium priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and the performance ratio, for each water allocation group mentioned in schedule 8 , column 3, is not less than 99% of what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement.
(sec.30-ssec.2) The performance indicators for the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies are the performance ratios for each group of water allocations mentioned in subsection (1) .
(sec.30-ssec.3) In this section— high priority group means all water allocations that state they are in the ‘high priority group’. medium priority group means all water allocations that state they are in the ‘medium priority group’.
(a) the performance ratio, for the high priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and
(b) the performance ratio, for the medium priority group, is not less than what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement; and
(c) the performance ratio, for each water allocation group mentioned in schedule 8 , column 3, is not less than 99% of what the performance ratio for the group was immediately before the commencement.
sec.31
Water allocation security objective and performance indicator for underground water— Act , s 43
sec.31 Water allocation security objective and performance indicator for underground water— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (e) (ii) of the Act , the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies is that the annual announcement volume probability, for a water allocation group mentioned in schedule 9 , column 1, is at least the percentage stated for the group in schedule 9 , column 3.
The performance indicator for the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies is the annual announcement volume probability for each water allocation group mentioned in schedule 9 , column 1.
(sec.31-ssec.1) For section 43 (1) (e) (ii) of the Act , the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies is that the annual announcement volume probability, for a water allocation group mentioned in schedule 9 , column 1, is at least the percentage stated for the group in schedule 9 , column 3.
(sec.31-ssec.2) The performance indicator for the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies is the annual announcement volume probability for each water allocation group mentioned in schedule 9 , column 1.
pt.5-div.3
Calculation of performance indicators
Calculation of performance indicators
sec.32
Calculation of performance indicators for surface water
sec.32 Calculation of performance indicators for surface water
A performance indicator mentioned in section 28 or 30 must be calculated on the assumption that unallocated water reserved under this plan is being taken.
See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
Subsection (3) applies in relation to a decision made by the chief executive under chapter 2 of the Act —
that will result in the addition of a water allocation to, or the omission of a water allocation from, a priority group or a water allocation group; or
to approve an application under section 159 of the Act to change a water allocation.
In assessing the consistency of the decision with the water allocation security objectives for surface water, the performance indicators mentioned in section 30 must be calculated on the assumption the water allocation being added, omitted or changed is not part of a priority group or a water allocation group.
(sec.32-ssec.1) A performance indicator mentioned in section 28 or 30 must be calculated on the assumption that unallocated water reserved under this plan is being taken. See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
(sec.32-ssec.2) Subsection (3) applies in relation to a decision made by the chief executive under chapter 2 of the Act — that will result in the addition of a water allocation to, or the omission of a water allocation from, a priority group or a water allocation group; or to approve an application under section 159 of the Act to change a water allocation.
(sec.32-ssec.3) In assessing the consistency of the decision with the water allocation security objectives for surface water, the performance indicators mentioned in section 30 must be calculated on the assumption the water allocation being added, omitted or changed is not part of a priority group or a water allocation group.
(a) that will result in the addition of a water allocation to, or the omission of a water allocation from, a priority group or a water allocation group; or
(b) to approve an application under section 159 of the Act to change a water allocation.
pt.6
Garden size and volume of water for watering
Garden size and volume of water for watering
sec.33
Garden size and volume of water for watering— Act , s 6
sec.33 Garden size and volume of water for watering— Act , s 6
For section 6 (3) (a) of the Act , a combined garden size of 0.25ha is stated for this plan.
For section 6 (3) (b) of the Act , the volume of water that is sufficient to water a garden, with a combined size not exceeding 0.25ha, in the plan area is 2ML a year.
(sec.33-ssec.1) For section 6 (3) (a) of the Act , a combined garden size of 0.25ha is stated for this plan.
(sec.33-ssec.2) For section 6 (3) (b) of the Act , the volume of water that is sufficient to water a garden, with a combined size not exceeding 0.25ha, in the plan area is 2ML a year.
pt.7
Particular decisions about allocation or management of water
Particular decisions about allocation or management of water
sec.34
Definition for part
sec.34 Definition for part
In this part—
decision means a decision made by the chief executive under chapter 2 of the Act about the allocation or management of water to which this plan applies, other than a decision about a water permit.
sec.35
Decisions must not increase amount of water taken
sec.35 Decisions must not increase amount of water taken
A decision must not increase—
the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; or
the combined total of each nominal entitlement for water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies, other than water licences to which water sharing rules apply.
Subsection (1) does not apply to a decision about—
the reinstatement of a water licence; or
taking unallocated water reserved under this plan; or
See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
taking or interfering with underground water to which this plan applies that is not in an underground water unit.
(sec.35-ssec.1) A decision must not increase— the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; or the combined total of each nominal entitlement for water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies, other than water licences to which water sharing rules apply.
(sec.35-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to a decision about— the reinstatement of a water licence; or taking unallocated water reserved under this plan; or See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan. taking or interfering with underground water to which this plan applies that is not in an underground water unit.
(a) the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; or
(b) the combined total of each nominal entitlement for water licences to take underground water to which this plan applies, other than water licences to which water sharing rules apply.
(a) the reinstatement of a water licence; or
(b) taking unallocated water reserved under this plan; or Note— See section 43 for unallocated water reserved under this plan.
(c) taking or interfering with underground water to which this plan applies that is not in an underground water unit.
sec.36
Particular decisions must be consistent with particular objectives
sec.36 Particular decisions must be consistent with particular objectives
A decision must be consistent with—
for a decision about the allocation or management of surface water to which this plan applies—
the environmental flow objectives stated in section 28 (1) ; and
the water allocation security objectives stated in section 30 (1) ; or
for a decision about the allocation or management of underground water to which this plan applies—
the environmental flow objectives stated in section 29 (1) ; and
the water allocation security objective stated in section 31 (1) .
(a) for a decision about the allocation or management of surface water to which this plan applies— (i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 28 (1) ; and (ii) the water allocation security objectives stated in section 30 (1) ; or
(i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 28 (1) ; and
(ii) the water allocation security objectives stated in section 30 (1) ; or
(b) for a decision about the allocation or management of underground water to which this plan applies— (i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 29 (1) ; and (ii) the water allocation security objective stated in section 31 (1) .
(i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 29 (1) ; and
(ii) the water allocation security objective stated in section 31 (1) .
(i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 28 (1) ; and
(ii) the water allocation security objectives stated in section 30 (1) ; or
(i) the environmental flow objectives stated in section 29 (1) ; and
(ii) the water allocation security objective stated in section 31 (1) .
sec.37
Assessing consistency with particular objectives
sec.37 Assessing consistency with particular objectives
To assess the consistency of a decision with the environmental flow objectives for surface water or underground water to which this plan applies, or with the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies, the model computer program’s simulation for the simulation period must be used.
To assess the consistency of a decision with the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies, the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool must be used.
If it is not practicable to use the model computer program’s simulation, or the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool, another kind of assessment approved by the chief executive may be used.
In this section—
model computer program means—
the eWater Source computer program; or
the MODFLOW computer program; or
the statistical analysis and reporting programs associated with a computer program mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) .
(sec.37-ssec.1) To assess the consistency of a decision with the environmental flow objectives for surface water or underground water to which this plan applies, or with the water allocation security objectives for surface water to which this plan applies, the model computer program’s simulation for the simulation period must be used.
(sec.37-ssec.2) To assess the consistency of a decision with the water allocation security objective for underground water to which this plan applies, the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool must be used.
(sec.37-ssec.3) If it is not practicable to use the model computer program’s simulation, or the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool, another kind of assessment approved by the chief executive may be used.
(sec.37-ssec.4) In this section— model computer program means— the eWater Source computer program; or the MODFLOW computer program; or the statistical analysis and reporting programs associated with a computer program mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) .
(a) the eWater Source computer program; or
(b) the MODFLOW computer program; or
(c) the statistical analysis and reporting programs associated with a computer program mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) .
pt.8
Limitations on taking or interfering with water
Limitations on taking or interfering with water
sec.38
Limitations on taking water for particular activities— Act , s 101
sec.38 Limitations on taking water for particular activities— Act , s 101
For section 101 (1) of the Act —
the combined total amount of water to which this plan applies that may be taken for all activities prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act is 2ML a year; and
a person must not take water to which this plan applies for an activity prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act unless the water is taken using existing works.
Subsection (1) (b) does not apply to underground water to which this plan applies taken from the following underground water units—
the St George Alluvium (shallow);
the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
In this section—
existing works means works—
that are used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with water; and
to which 1 of the following applies—
the works were constructed before the commencement;
for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies—the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in subparagraph (i) ;
for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with surface water—the works replace works mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(sec.38-ssec.1) For section 101 (1) of the Act — the combined total amount of water to which this plan applies that may be taken for all activities prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act is 2ML a year; and a person must not take water to which this plan applies for an activity prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act unless the water is taken using existing works.
(sec.38-ssec.2) Subsection (1) (b) does not apply to underground water to which this plan applies taken from the following underground water units— the St George Alluvium (shallow); the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin; the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(sec.38-ssec.3) In this section— existing works means works— that are used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with water; and to which 1 of the following applies— the works were constructed before the commencement; for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies—the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in subparagraph (i) ; for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with surface water—the works replace works mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(a) the combined total amount of water to which this plan applies that may be taken for all activities prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act is 2ML a year; and
(b) a person must not take water to which this plan applies for an activity prescribed under section 101 (1) (a) of the Act unless the water is taken using existing works.
(a) the St George Alluvium (shallow);
(b) the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
(c) the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(a) that are used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with water; and
(b) to which 1 of the following applies— (i) the works were constructed before the commencement; (ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies—the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in subparagraph (i) ; (iii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with surface water—the works replace works mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(i) the works were constructed before the commencement;
(ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies—the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in subparagraph (i) ;
(iii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with surface water—the works replace works mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(i) the works were constructed before the commencement;
(ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies—the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in subparagraph (i) ;
(iii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with surface water—the works replace works mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
sec.39
Limitations on taking overland flow water— Act , s 101
sec.39 Limitations on taking overland flow water— Act , s 101
For section 101 (1) of the Act , a person must not, under section 101 (1) (b) of the Act , take overland flow water to which this plan applies unless the water—
is taken under a water entitlement or water permit; or
is taken for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or
is taken using—
existing overland flow works located in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or
notified existing overland flow works located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
See also section 101 (3) of the Act for when a person cannot be prevented from taking overland flow water that is contaminated agricultural run-off.
However, subsection (1) (c) does not apply to the person if the person holds a water licence to take the overland flow water using the works.
(sec.39-ssec.1) For section 101 (1) of the Act , a person must not, under section 101 (1) (b) of the Act , take overland flow water to which this plan applies unless the water— is taken under a water entitlement or water permit; or is taken for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or is taken using— existing overland flow works located in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or notified existing overland flow works located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area. See also section 101 (3) of the Act for when a person cannot be prevented from taking overland flow water that is contaminated agricultural run-off.
(sec.39-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) (c) does not apply to the person if the person holds a water licence to take the overland flow water using the works.
(a) is taken under a water entitlement or water permit; or
(b) is taken for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or
(c) is taken using— (i) existing overland flow works located in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or (ii) notified existing overland flow works located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
(i) existing overland flow works located in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or
(ii) notified existing overland flow works located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
(i) existing overland flow works located in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or
(ii) notified existing overland flow works located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
sec.40
Limitations on taking or interfering with underground water in underground water management area— Act , s 101
sec.40 Limitations on taking or interfering with underground water in underground water management area— Act , s 101
For section 101 (1) of the Act , a person must not, under section 101 (1) (c) of the Act , take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies, from an underground water unit, unless the water is taken or interfered with—
under a water entitlement or water permit; or
under a seasonal water assignment notice; or
for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or
for relevant underground water—using existing underground water works.
Subsection (1) (c) is subject to section 41 .
In this section—
existing underground water works means works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies if—
for underground water from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area—
the works were constructed before 6 July 2016; or
otherwise—
construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and
the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
for underground water from the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep—the works were constructed before the commencement; or
The Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep is an underground water unit.
the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) .
relevant underground water means underground water to which this plan applies from—
the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or
the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
The Border Rivers Fractured Rock and the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep are underground water units.
(sec.40-ssec.1) For section 101 (1) of the Act , a person must not, under section 101 (1) (c) of the Act , take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies, from an underground water unit, unless the water is taken or interfered with— under a water entitlement or water permit; or under a seasonal water assignment notice; or for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or for relevant underground water—using existing underground water works.
(sec.40-ssec.2) Subsection (1) (c) is subject to section 41 .
(sec.40-ssec.3) In this section— existing underground water works means works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies if— for underground water from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area— the works were constructed before 6 July 2016; or otherwise— construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit. for underground water from the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep—the works were constructed before the commencement; or The Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep is an underground water unit. the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) . relevant underground water means underground water to which this plan applies from— the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep. The Border Rivers Fractured Rock and the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep are underground water units.
(a) under a water entitlement or water permit; or
(b) under a seasonal water assignment notice; or
(c) for stock purposes or domestic purposes; or
(d) for relevant underground water—using existing underground water works.
(a) for underground water from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area— (i) the works were constructed before 6 July 2016; or (ii) otherwise— (A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and (B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or Note— The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
(i) the works were constructed before 6 July 2016; or
(ii) otherwise— (A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and (B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
(A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and
(B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
(b) for underground water from the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep—the works were constructed before the commencement; or Note— The Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep is an underground water unit.
(c) the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) .
(i) the works were constructed before 6 July 2016; or
(ii) otherwise— (A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and (B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
(A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and
(B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
(A) construction of the works was physically started before 6 July 2016 and was completed before 31 December 2016; and
(B) the chief executive was, before 17 August 2016, given a notice for the works under item 5(c) of the moratorium notice, published on 6 July 2016, called ‘Moratorium notice Water Act 2000 Granite Belt underground water area’; or
(a) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; or
(b) the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
sec.41
Taking or interfering with underground water from land in service area for stock purposes or domestic purposes
sec.41 Taking or interfering with underground water from land in service area for stock purposes or domestic purposes
This section applies to underground water to which this plan applies if the water is—
taken or interfered with, for stock purposes or domestic purposes, on land in a service area; and
taken from either of the following underground water units—
the Border Rivers Alluvium;
the Border Rivers Fractured Rock.
The water may only be taken or interfered with using existing underground water works.
In this section—
existing underground water works means works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies if—
the works were—
used, or capable of being used, to take underground water for stock purposes or domestic purposes immediately before the commencement; and
for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water from the Border Rivers Alluvium—
constructed before 19 December 2014; or
constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and
The Border Rivers Alluvium is an underground water unit.
the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) .
service area means a service area for a retail water service to customers under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 .
(sec.41-ssec.1) This section applies to underground water to which this plan applies if the water is— taken or interfered with, for stock purposes or domestic purposes, on land in a service area; and taken from either of the following underground water units— the Border Rivers Alluvium; the Border Rivers Fractured Rock.
(sec.41-ssec.2) The water may only be taken or interfered with using existing underground water works.
(sec.41-ssec.3) In this section— existing underground water works means works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water to which this plan applies if— the works were— used, or capable of being used, to take underground water for stock purposes or domestic purposes immediately before the commencement; and for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water from the Border Rivers Alluvium— constructed before 19 December 2014; or constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and The Border Rivers Alluvium is an underground water unit. the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) . service area means a service area for a retail water service to customers under the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 .
(a) taken or interfered with, for stock purposes or domestic purposes, on land in a service area; and
(b) taken from either of the following underground water units— (i) the Border Rivers Alluvium; (ii) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock.
(i) the Border Rivers Alluvium;
(ii) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock.
(i) the Border Rivers Alluvium;
(ii) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock.
(a) the works were— (i) used, or capable of being used, to take underground water for stock purposes or domestic purposes immediately before the commencement; and (ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water from the Border Rivers Alluvium— (A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or (B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and Note— The Border Rivers Alluvium is an underground water unit.
(i) used, or capable of being used, to take underground water for stock purposes or domestic purposes immediately before the commencement; and
(ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water from the Border Rivers Alluvium— (A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or (B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and Note— The Border Rivers Alluvium is an underground water unit.
(A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or
(B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and
(b) the works are a replacement water bore that replaces works mentioned in paragraph (a) .
(i) used, or capable of being used, to take underground water for stock purposes or domestic purposes immediately before the commencement; and
(ii) for works used, or capable of being used, to take or interfere with underground water from the Border Rivers Alluvium— (A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or (B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and Note— The Border Rivers Alluvium is an underground water unit.
(A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or
(B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and
(A) constructed before 19 December 2014; or
(B) constructed in accordance with an agreement entered into between the person and the chief executive between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015; and
sec.42
Volume of limited capacity for contaminated agricultural run-off
sec.42 Volume of limited capacity for contaminated agricultural run-off
For State code 10 of the State development assessment provisions, the volume of the limited capacity of contaminated agricultural run-off to which this plan applies is 1ML.
In this section—
State development assessment provisions see the Planning Regulation 2017 , schedule 24 .
(sec.42-ssec.1) For State code 10 of the State development assessment provisions, the volume of the limited capacity of contaminated agricultural run-off to which this plan applies is 1ML.
(sec.42-ssec.2) In this section— State development assessment provisions see the Planning Regulation 2017 , schedule 24 .
pt.9
Unallocated water
Unallocated water
sec.43
Unallocated water reserved under this plan— Act , s 43
sec.43 Unallocated water reserved under this plan— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (c) of the Act , the volume of unallocated water reserved under this plan is—
for surface water to which this plan applies in a water management area mentioned in schedule 10 , part 1 , column 1—the average annual volume of water stated in schedule 10 , part 1 , column 2 for the area; and
for underground water to which this plan applies in an underground water unit mentioned in schedule 10 , part 2 , column 2—the annual volume of water stated in schedule 10 , part 2 , column 3 for the underground water unit.
(a) for surface water to which this plan applies in a water management area mentioned in schedule 10 , part 1 , column 1—the average annual volume of water stated in schedule 10 , part 1 , column 2 for the area; and
(b) for underground water to which this plan applies in an underground water unit mentioned in schedule 10 , part 2 , column 2—the annual volume of water stated in schedule 10 , part 2 , column 3 for the underground water unit.
pt.10
Water licences
Water licences
pt.10-div.1
Applications that must not be accepted
Applications that must not be accepted
sec.44
Chief executive must not accept particular applications— Act , s 43
sec.44 Chief executive must not accept particular applications— Act , s 43
For section 43 (2) (j) of the Act , the chief executive must not accept an application for a water licence made under section 107 of the Act unless the chief executive is permitted to accept the application under section 45 or 46 .
sec.45
Particular applications made by local governments
sec.45 Particular applications made by local governments
This section applies in relation to an application made by a local government under section 107 of the Act for a water licence to interfere with the flow of water to which this plan applies.
The chief executive may accept the application if—
the purpose of the proposed interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation held by the local government to supply town water; and
either—
the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
If the chief executive grants the application mentioned in subsection (1) , the water licence must include the conditions stated in the water management protocol for the licence.
In this section—
relevant change application means an application, under section 159 (1) of the Act , to change the water allocation mentioned in subsection (2) (a) —
to prevent an increase, due to the proposed interference mentioned in subsection (1) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and
to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and
to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed interference may be taken.
(sec.45-ssec.1) This section applies in relation to an application made by a local government under section 107 of the Act for a water licence to interfere with the flow of water to which this plan applies.
(sec.45-ssec.2) The chief executive may accept the application if— the purpose of the proposed interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation held by the local government to supply town water; and either— the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(sec.45-ssec.3) If the chief executive grants the application mentioned in subsection (1) , the water licence must include the conditions stated in the water management protocol for the licence.
(sec.45-ssec.4) In this section— relevant change application means an application, under section 159 (1) of the Act , to change the water allocation mentioned in subsection (2) (a) — to prevent an increase, due to the proposed interference mentioned in subsection (1) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed interference may be taken.
(a) the purpose of the proposed interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation held by the local government to supply town water; and
(b) either— (i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or (ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
(ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
(ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(a) to prevent an increase, due to the proposed interference mentioned in subsection (1) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and
(b) to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and
(c) to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed interference may be taken.
sec.46
Applications for water licences to take overland flow water using particular existing overland flow works
sec.46 Applications for water licences to take overland flow water using particular existing overland flow works
This section applies if—
the owner of land, on which works used to take overland flow water are situated, applies under section 107 of the Act for a water licence to take overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and
the works are located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
The chief executive may accept the application if the chief executive is reasonably satisfied—
the works are existing overland flow works; and
for works other than notified existing overland flow works—the works were used to take overland flow water, other than for stock purposes or domestic purposes, before—
for works in the Border Rivers catchment—20 September 2000; or
for works in the Moonie catchment—9 June 2001.
See also section 39 (1) (c) for when a person may take overland flow water using existing overland flow works.
(sec.46-ssec.1) This section applies if— the owner of land, on which works used to take overland flow water are situated, applies under section 107 of the Act for a water licence to take overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and the works are located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
(sec.46-ssec.2) The chief executive may accept the application if the chief executive is reasonably satisfied— the works are existing overland flow works; and for works other than notified existing overland flow works—the works were used to take overland flow water, other than for stock purposes or domestic purposes, before— for works in the Border Rivers catchment—20 September 2000; or for works in the Moonie catchment—9 June 2001.
(a) the owner of land, on which works used to take overland flow water are situated, applies under section 107 of the Act for a water licence to take overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and
(b) the works are located in the plan area, other than in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area.
(a) the works are existing overland flow works; and
(b) for works other than notified existing overland flow works—the works were used to take overland flow water, other than for stock purposes or domestic purposes, before— (i) for works in the Border Rivers catchment—20 September 2000; or (ii) for works in the Moonie catchment—9 June 2001.
(i) for works in the Border Rivers catchment—20 September 2000; or
(ii) for works in the Moonie catchment—9 June 2001.
(i) for works in the Border Rivers catchment—20 September 2000; or
(ii) for works in the Moonie catchment—9 June 2001.
pt.10-div.2
Applications inconsistent with this plan
Applications inconsistent with this plan
sec.47
Particular applications for dealing with water licences inconsistent with this plan
sec.47 Particular applications for dealing with water licences inconsistent with this plan
The granting of an application made under section 121 of the Act for a dealing with a water licence in relation to water to which this plan applies is inconsistent with this plan if the application is an application mentioned in section 130 (1) (a) of the Act .
See section 129 of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if the granting of an application for a dealing with a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
However, subsection (1) does not apply to the application if—
the application is made by a local government to allow for increased interference with the flow of water to which this plan applies; and
the purpose of the proposed increased interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation, held by the local government, to supply town water; and
either—
the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
See section 130 of the Act for how an application mentioned in this subsection must be assessed.
Also, subsection (1) does not apply if the application is—
an application to amend a water licence to take underground water to change the location from which water may be taken under the licence; or
an application to amalgamate water licences to take underground water.
If the chief executive grants an application to which subsection (2) applies, the water licence to which the dealing relates must include the conditions stated in the water management protocol for the licence.
In this section—
relevant change application means an application, under section 159 (1) of the Act , to change the water allocation mentioned in subsection (2) (b) —
to prevent an increase, due to the proposed increased interference mentioned in subsection (2) (a) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and
to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and
to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed increased interference may be taken.
s 47 amd 2023 Act No. 24 s 75 s ch 1 pt 1
(sec.47-ssec.1) The granting of an application made under section 121 of the Act for a dealing with a water licence in relation to water to which this plan applies is inconsistent with this plan if the application is an application mentioned in section 130 (1) (a) of the Act . See section 129 of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if the granting of an application for a dealing with a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
(sec.47-ssec.2) However, subsection (1) does not apply to the application if— the application is made by a local government to allow for increased interference with the flow of water to which this plan applies; and the purpose of the proposed increased interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation, held by the local government, to supply town water; and either— the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act . See section 130 of the Act for how an application mentioned in this subsection must be assessed.
(sec.47-ssec.3) Also, subsection (1) does not apply if the application is— an application to amend a water licence to take underground water to change the location from which water may be taken under the licence; or an application to amalgamate water licences to take underground water.
(sec.47-ssec.4) If the chief executive grants an application to which subsection (2) applies, the water licence to which the dealing relates must include the conditions stated in the water management protocol for the licence.
(sec.47-ssec.5) In this section— relevant change application means an application, under section 159 (1) of the Act , to change the water allocation mentioned in subsection (2) (b) — to prevent an increase, due to the proposed increased interference mentioned in subsection (2) (a) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed increased interference may be taken.
(a) the application is made by a local government to allow for increased interference with the flow of water to which this plan applies; and
(b) the purpose of the proposed increased interference is to impound water to enable the taking of water under a water allocation, held by the local government, to supply town water; and
(c) either— (i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or (ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
(ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(i) the local government has made a relevant change application to the chief executive; or
(ii) the chief executive has approved a relevant change application made by the local government and has given a certificate, for the dealing to which the application relates, to the local government under section 159 (4) of the Act .
(a) an application to amend a water licence to take underground water to change the location from which water may be taken under the licence; or
(b) an application to amalgamate water licences to take underground water.
(a) to prevent an increase, due to the proposed increased interference mentioned in subsection (2) (a) , of the average volume of surface water or underground water that may be taken under this plan; and
(b) to remove a condition stating a flow threshold for taking water; and
(c) to ensure the water allocation is subject to a condition stating that only water impounded by the proposed increased interference may be taken.
pt.10-div.3
Granting particular water licences
Granting particular water licences
sec.48
Water licences granted to authorise particular existing activities— Act , s 116
sec.48 Water licences granted to authorise particular existing activities— Act , s 116
This section applies if a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence to interfere with the flow of water to which this plan applies for the purpose of impounding water using works mentioned in schedule 11 .
For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the water licence.
See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(sec.48-ssec.1) This section applies if a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence to interfere with the flow of water to which this plan applies for the purpose of impounding water using works mentioned in schedule 11 .
(sec.48-ssec.2) For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the water licence. See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
sec.49
Water licence granted to replace existing authority— Act , s 116
sec.49 Water licence granted to replace existing authority— Act , s 116
This section applies if a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence to—
take underground water to which this plan applies; and
replace water permit number 615657.
For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the water licence.
See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(sec.49-ssec.1) This section applies if a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence to— take underground water to which this plan applies; and replace water permit number 615657.
(sec.49-ssec.2) For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the water licence. See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(a) take underground water to which this plan applies; and
(b) replace water permit number 615657.
sec.50
Definitions for subdivision
sec.50 Definitions for subdivision
In this subdivision—
ancillary water licence see section 51 (1) (d) .
impounded water see section 51 (1) (a) .
licence to interfere means a water licence stated in schedule 12 , column 1.
sec.51
Grant of ancillary water licences to particular persons— Act , s 116
sec.51 Grant of ancillary water licences to particular persons— Act , s 116
This section applies if—
water ( impounded water ) to which this plan applies is impounded under a licence to interfere; and
an existing authorisation, stated in schedule 12 , column 2 opposite the licence to interfere, is converted, under section 72 , to a converted water allocation that is subject to the conditions mentioned in section 75 (2) (b) ; and
before it was converted, the existing authorisation authorised the taking of some or all of the impounded water; and
a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence (an ancillary water licence ) to take the impounded water to the holder of the converted water allocation.
For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the ancillary water licence.
See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(sec.51-ssec.1) This section applies if— water ( impounded water ) to which this plan applies is impounded under a licence to interfere; and an existing authorisation, stated in schedule 12 , column 2 opposite the licence to interfere, is converted, under section 72 , to a converted water allocation that is subject to the conditions mentioned in section 75 (2) (b) ; and before it was converted, the existing authorisation authorised the taking of some or all of the impounded water; and a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence (an ancillary water licence ) to take the impounded water to the holder of the converted water allocation.
(sec.51-ssec.2) For section 116 (1) of the Act , the chief executive must decide to grant the ancillary water licence. See also section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(a) water ( impounded water ) to which this plan applies is impounded under a licence to interfere; and
(b) an existing authorisation, stated in schedule 12 , column 2 opposite the licence to interfere, is converted, under section 72 , to a converted water allocation that is subject to the conditions mentioned in section 75 (2) (b) ; and
(c) before it was converted, the existing authorisation authorised the taking of some or all of the impounded water; and
(d) a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the granting of a water licence (an ancillary water licence ) to take the impounded water to the holder of the converted water allocation.
sec.52
Content and conditions of ancillary water licence
sec.52 Content and conditions of ancillary water licence
The ancillary water licence must—
state—
the purpose for which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence as ‘any’; and
the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence, in megalitres a day; and
the volumetric limit for the ancillary water licence; and
be subject to—
a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must not be stored; and
a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must be taken only from the impoundment authorised under the licence to interfere.
(a) state— (i) the purpose for which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence as ‘any’; and (ii) the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence, in megalitres a day; and (iii) the volumetric limit for the ancillary water licence; and
(i) the purpose for which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence as ‘any’; and
(ii) the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence, in megalitres a day; and
(iii) the volumetric limit for the ancillary water licence; and
(b) be subject to— (i) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must not be stored; and (ii) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must be taken only from the impoundment authorised under the licence to interfere.
(i) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must not be stored; and
(ii) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must be taken only from the impoundment authorised under the licence to interfere.
(i) the purpose for which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence as ‘any’; and
(ii) the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence, in megalitres a day; and
(iii) the volumetric limit for the ancillary water licence; and
(i) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must not be stored; and
(ii) a condition that impounded water taken under the ancillary water licence must be taken only from the impoundment authorised under the licence to interfere.
sec.53
Working out maximum rate
sec.53 Working out maximum rate
This section applies for working out, for section 52 (a) (ii) , the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence.
The maximum rate is—
subject to paragraph (c) , if the existing authorisation stated a rate for taking the water—the stated rate; or
subject to paragraph (c) , if a development permit related to the existing authorisation states a pump size—
for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to—
the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
if paragraphs (a) and (b) both apply—the lesser of the following rates—
the rate decided under paragraph (a) ;
the rate decided under paragraph (b) ; or
otherwise—the rate worked out by the chief executive having regard to—
the purpose stated in any existing authorisation that was previously held by the licensee; and
the rate at which the chief executive estimates water was able to be taken under the existing authorisation mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(sec.53-ssec.1) This section applies for working out, for section 52 (a) (ii) , the maximum rate at which impounded water may be taken under the ancillary water licence.
(sec.53-ssec.2) The maximum rate is— subject to paragraph (c) , if the existing authorisation stated a rate for taking the water—the stated rate; or subject to paragraph (c) , if a development permit related to the existing authorisation states a pump size— for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or if paragraphs (a) and (b) both apply—the lesser of the following rates— the rate decided under paragraph (a) ; the rate decided under paragraph (b) ; or otherwise—the rate worked out by the chief executive having regard to— the purpose stated in any existing authorisation that was previously held by the licensee; and the rate at which the chief executive estimates water was able to be taken under the existing authorisation mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(a) subject to paragraph (c) , if the existing authorisation stated a rate for taking the water—the stated rate; or
(b) subject to paragraph (c) , if a development permit related to the existing authorisation states a pump size— (i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or (ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or (iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or (iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
(ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
(iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
(iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(c) if paragraphs (a) and (b) both apply—the lesser of the following rates— (i) the rate decided under paragraph (a) ; (ii) the rate decided under paragraph (b) ; or
(i) the rate decided under paragraph (a) ;
(ii) the rate decided under paragraph (b) ; or
(d) otherwise—the rate worked out by the chief executive having regard to— (i) the purpose stated in any existing authorisation that was previously held by the licensee; and (ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water was able to be taken under the existing authorisation mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(i) the purpose stated in any existing authorisation that was previously held by the licensee; and
(ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water was able to be taken under the existing authorisation mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
(i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
(ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
(iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
(iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(i) the rate decided under paragraph (a) ;
(ii) the rate decided under paragraph (b) ; or
(i) the purpose stated in any existing authorisation that was previously held by the licensee; and
(ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water was able to be taken under the existing authorisation mentioned in subparagraph (i) .
sec.54
Volumetric limit
sec.54 Volumetric limit
For section 52 (a) (iii) , the volumetric limit for the ancillary water licence is the volumetric limit stated in schedule 12 , column 3 opposite the existing authorisation.
sec.55
Authority of ancillary water licence
sec.55 Authority of ancillary water licence
To remove any doubt, the authority to take water under the ancillary water licence is in addition to, and does not affect, the authority of the holder of the converted water allocation to take water under the allocation.
pt.10-div.4
Water licences to take overland flow water
Water licences to take overland flow water
sec.56
Content and conditions of water licences to take overland flow water
sec.56 Content and conditions of water licences to take overland flow water
A water licence to take overland flow water to which this plan applies must—
state the purpose for which the water may be taken as ‘any’; and
include at least 1 of the following—
the maximum rate at which the water may be taken under the water licence;
the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store the water taken under the water licence;
the average annual volume of water that may be taken under the water licence;
the volumetric limit for the water licence.
The water licence may also include the following conditions—
a limit on the volume of the water that may be taken in a stated period;
a limit on the volume of the water that may be stored.
(sec.56-ssec.1) A water licence to take overland flow water to which this plan applies must— state the purpose for which the water may be taken as ‘any’; and include at least 1 of the following— the maximum rate at which the water may be taken under the water licence; the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store the water taken under the water licence; the average annual volume of water that may be taken under the water licence; the volumetric limit for the water licence.
(sec.56-ssec.2) The water licence may also include the following conditions— a limit on the volume of the water that may be taken in a stated period; a limit on the volume of the water that may be stored.
(a) state the purpose for which the water may be taken as ‘any’; and
(b) include at least 1 of the following— (i) the maximum rate at which the water may be taken under the water licence; (ii) the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store the water taken under the water licence; (iii) the average annual volume of water that may be taken under the water licence; (iv) the volumetric limit for the water licence.
(i) the maximum rate at which the water may be taken under the water licence;
(ii) the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store the water taken under the water licence;
(iii) the average annual volume of water that may be taken under the water licence;
(iv) the volumetric limit for the water licence.
(i) the maximum rate at which the water may be taken under the water licence;
(ii) the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store the water taken under the water licence;
(iii) the average annual volume of water that may be taken under the water licence;
(iv) the volumetric limit for the water licence.
(a) a limit on the volume of the water that may be taken in a stated period;
(b) a limit on the volume of the water that may be stored.
sec.57
Working out maximum rate
sec.57 Working out maximum rate
This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (i) , the maximum rate at which overland flow water may be taken.
The chief executive—
if a certified report for the works that will be used to take the overland flow water has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and
may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
If the chief executive works out the maximum rate having regard to the size of the pump that will be used to take the overland flow water, the maximum rate must not be greater than the rate stated in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 3 for the pump size stated opposite in schedule 7 , column 1 of that regulation.
(sec.57-ssec.1) This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (i) , the maximum rate at which overland flow water may be taken.
(sec.57-ssec.2) The chief executive— if a certified report for the works that will be used to take the overland flow water has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
(sec.57-ssec.3) If the chief executive works out the maximum rate having regard to the size of the pump that will be used to take the overland flow water, the maximum rate must not be greater than the rate stated in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 3 for the pump size stated opposite in schedule 7 , column 1 of that regulation.
(a) if a certified report for the works that will be used to take the overland flow water has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and
(b) may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
sec.58
Working out maximum storage capacity
sec.58 Working out maximum storage capacity
This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (ii) , the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store overland flow water.
The chief executive—
if a certified report for the works has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and
may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
However, the chief executive must disregard the storage capacity of—
bunded land; or
land used for irrigated or dryland agriculture; or
land surrounded by levees.
See section 39 (1) (c) for when a person may take overland flow water using existing overland flow works.
In this section—
bunded land means land on which a permanent or temporary levee is constructed to divert overland flow water away from land used for agricultural or horticultural production.
(sec.58-ssec.1) This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (ii) , the maximum storage capacity of works that may be used to store overland flow water.
(sec.58-ssec.2) The chief executive— if a certified report for the works has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
(sec.58-ssec.3) However, the chief executive must disregard the storage capacity of— bunded land; or land used for irrigated or dryland agriculture; or land surrounded by levees. See section 39 (1) (c) for when a person may take overland flow water using existing overland flow works.
(sec.58-ssec.4) In this section— bunded land means land on which a permanent or temporary levee is constructed to divert overland flow water away from land used for agricultural or horticultural production.
(a) if a certified report for the works has been requested under section 62 (4) (a) (iii) —must have regard to the certified report for the works given to the chief executive; and
(b) may have regard to any other relevant information available to the chief executive.
(a) bunded land; or
(b) land used for irrigated or dryland agriculture; or
(c) land surrounded by levees.
sec.59
Working out average annual volume
sec.59 Working out average annual volume
This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (iii) , the average annual volume of overland flow water that may be taken.
The chief executive must have regard to—
the catchment characteristics for the water’s catchment; and
the maximum rate, if any, worked out under section 57 , at which the overland flow water may be taken; and
the maximum storage capacity, if any, worked out under section 58 , of the works that may be used to store the water; and
if overland flow water taken under the water licence is to be used to irrigate crops—the pattern of usage demand for the storage for the water licence; and
the extent to which the storage for the water licence may also be used to store water taken under another authorisation; and
the other conditions applying to the water licence.
In this section—
catchment characteristics , for a catchment, means the characteristics of the catchment that affect the volume of overland flow water in the catchment, including, for example—
the area of the catchment; and
the slope of the catchment; and
the amount of rainfall that typically falls in the catchment; and
the amount and type of vegetation in the catchment.
pattern of usage demand , for a storage, means the pattern of usage from the storage worked out having regard to—
how water, stored in or by the storage, is used to grow crops; and
the planting rule for the trading zone in which the storage is located.
planting rule , for a trading zone, means the method used, in the IQQM computer program simulation, to work out the area under crops in the trading zone in the Border Rivers catchment.
storage , for a water licence, means the works that will primarily be used to store the overland flow water taken under the water licence.
trading zone means an area stated to be a trading zone for water allocations under this plan.
(sec.59-ssec.1) This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (iii) , the average annual volume of overland flow water that may be taken.
(sec.59-ssec.2) The chief executive must have regard to— the catchment characteristics for the water’s catchment; and the maximum rate, if any, worked out under section 57 , at which the overland flow water may be taken; and the maximum storage capacity, if any, worked out under section 58 , of the works that may be used to store the water; and if overland flow water taken under the water licence is to be used to irrigate crops—the pattern of usage demand for the storage for the water licence; and the extent to which the storage for the water licence may also be used to store water taken under another authorisation; and the other conditions applying to the water licence.
(sec.59-ssec.3) In this section— catchment characteristics , for a catchment, means the characteristics of the catchment that affect the volume of overland flow water in the catchment, including, for example— the area of the catchment; and the slope of the catchment; and the amount of rainfall that typically falls in the catchment; and the amount and type of vegetation in the catchment. pattern of usage demand , for a storage, means the pattern of usage from the storage worked out having regard to— how water, stored in or by the storage, is used to grow crops; and the planting rule for the trading zone in which the storage is located. planting rule , for a trading zone, means the method used, in the IQQM computer program simulation, to work out the area under crops in the trading zone in the Border Rivers catchment. storage , for a water licence, means the works that will primarily be used to store the overland flow water taken under the water licence. trading zone means an area stated to be a trading zone for water allocations under this plan.
(a) the catchment characteristics for the water’s catchment; and
(b) the maximum rate, if any, worked out under section 57 , at which the overland flow water may be taken; and
(c) the maximum storage capacity, if any, worked out under section 58 , of the works that may be used to store the water; and
(d) if overland flow water taken under the water licence is to be used to irrigate crops—the pattern of usage demand for the storage for the water licence; and
(e) the extent to which the storage for the water licence may also be used to store water taken under another authorisation; and
(f) the other conditions applying to the water licence.
(a) the area of the catchment; and
(b) the slope of the catchment; and
(c) the amount of rainfall that typically falls in the catchment; and
(d) the amount and type of vegetation in the catchment.
(a) how water, stored in or by the storage, is used to grow crops; and
(b) the planting rule for the trading zone in which the storage is located.
sec.60
Working out volumetric limit
sec.60 Working out volumetric limit
This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (iv) , the volumetric limit for the water licence.
If an average annual volume, worked out under section 59 , is a condition of the water licence, the chief executive must have regard to that average annual volume.
(sec.60-ssec.1) This section applies for working out, for section 56 (1) (b) (iv) , the volumetric limit for the water licence.
(sec.60-ssec.2) If an average annual volume, worked out under section 59 , is a condition of the water licence, the chief executive must have regard to that average annual volume.
sec.61
Criteria for deciding applications for water licences to take overland flow water using existing overland flow works— Act , s 43
sec.61 Criteria for deciding applications for water licences to take overland flow water using existing overland flow works— Act , s 43
This section states, for section 43 (2) (h) of the Act , the criteria for deciding an application for a water licence, to take overland flow water to which this plan applies using existing overland flow works, accepted by the chief executive under section 46 (2) .
The chief executive must decide to grant the application if the chief executive reasonably believes there has been, or may be, an increase in the average annual volume of overland flow water taken using the works above the average annual volume that could have been taken using the works under the relevant operating arrangements for the works.
Despite subsection (2) , the chief executive may refuse to grant the application if the chief executive considers the application should be refused having regard to the matters the chief executive must consider under section 113 of the Act .
(sec.61-ssec.1) This section states, for section 43 (2) (h) of the Act , the criteria for deciding an application for a water licence, to take overland flow water to which this plan applies using existing overland flow works, accepted by the chief executive under section 46 (2) .
(sec.61-ssec.2) The chief executive must decide to grant the application if the chief executive reasonably believes there has been, or may be, an increase in the average annual volume of overland flow water taken using the works above the average annual volume that could have been taken using the works under the relevant operating arrangements for the works.
(sec.61-ssec.3) Despite subsection (2) , the chief executive may refuse to grant the application if the chief executive considers the application should be refused having regard to the matters the chief executive must consider under section 113 of the Act .
sec.62
Process for allocation of overland flow water— Act , s 116
sec.62 Process for allocation of overland flow water— Act , s 116
This section states, for section 116 (1) of the Act , a process for the allocation of overland flow water to which this plan applies under a water licence.
See section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
A water licence to take the water using existing overland flow works may be granted to the owner of the land on which the works are situated.
Without limiting subsection (2) , a water licence to take the water using existing overland flow works must be granted to the owner of the land on which the works are situated if—
the works are notified existing overland flow works; and
the chief executive reasonably believes there has been, or may be, an increase in the average annual volume of overland flow water taken using the works above the average annual volume that could have been taken using the works under the relevant operating arrangements for the works.
The chief executive must, before granting the water licence under subsection (2) or (3) —
give the owner a notice—
identifying the works for which a water licence is proposed to be granted; and
stating that a water licence is proposed to be granted for the taking of overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and
if the chief executive requires further information about the works—requesting the owner give the chief executive, within a stated period, a certified report for the works; and
if a certified report for the works has been requested under paragraph (a) (iii) —have regard to a certified report for the works given to the chief executive.
(sec.62-ssec.1) This section states, for section 116 (1) of the Act , a process for the allocation of overland flow water to which this plan applies under a water licence. See section 116 (2) of the Act for when the chief executive may grant a water licence without the need for an application to be made under section 107 of the Act .
(sec.62-ssec.2) A water licence to take the water using existing overland flow works may be granted to the owner of the land on which the works are situated.
(sec.62-ssec.3) Without limiting subsection (2) , a water licence to take the water using existing overland flow works must be granted to the owner of the land on which the works are situated if— the works are notified existing overland flow works; and the chief executive reasonably believes there has been, or may be, an increase in the average annual volume of overland flow water taken using the works above the average annual volume that could have been taken using the works under the relevant operating arrangements for the works.
(sec.62-ssec.4) The chief executive must, before granting the water licence under subsection (2) or (3) — give the owner a notice— identifying the works for which a water licence is proposed to be granted; and stating that a water licence is proposed to be granted for the taking of overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and if the chief executive requires further information about the works—requesting the owner give the chief executive, within a stated period, a certified report for the works; and if a certified report for the works has been requested under paragraph (a) (iii) —have regard to a certified report for the works given to the chief executive.
(a) the works are notified existing overland flow works; and
(b) the chief executive reasonably believes there has been, or may be, an increase in the average annual volume of overland flow water taken using the works above the average annual volume that could have been taken using the works under the relevant operating arrangements for the works.
(a) give the owner a notice— (i) identifying the works for which a water licence is proposed to be granted; and (ii) stating that a water licence is proposed to be granted for the taking of overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and (iii) if the chief executive requires further information about the works—requesting the owner give the chief executive, within a stated period, a certified report for the works; and
(i) identifying the works for which a water licence is proposed to be granted; and
(ii) stating that a water licence is proposed to be granted for the taking of overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and
(iii) if the chief executive requires further information about the works—requesting the owner give the chief executive, within a stated period, a certified report for the works; and
(b) if a certified report for the works has been requested under paragraph (a) (iii) —have regard to a certified report for the works given to the chief executive.
(i) identifying the works for which a water licence is proposed to be granted; and
(ii) stating that a water licence is proposed to be granted for the taking of overland flow water to which this plan applies using the works; and
(iii) if the chief executive requires further information about the works—requesting the owner give the chief executive, within a stated period, a certified report for the works; and
sec.63
Water licences to include particular conditions
sec.63 Water licences to include particular conditions
This section applies to a water licence with an identifying number mentioned in schedule 13 .
If, under section 70 (1) (e) of the Act , a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the water licence to be amended to be subject to a stated condition, the water licence is inconsistent with this plan unless the water licence is subject to the condition.
See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
For section 133 (2) of the Act , the stated time is 60 business days after the making of the water entitlement notice.
(sec.63-ssec.1) This section applies to a water licence with an identifying number mentioned in schedule 13 .
(sec.63-ssec.2) If, under section 70 (1) (e) of the Act , a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the water licence to be amended to be subject to a stated condition, the water licence is inconsistent with this plan unless the water licence is subject to the condition. See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
(sec.63-ssec.3) For section 133 (2) of the Act , the stated time is 60 business days after the making of the water entitlement notice.
pt.10-div.5
Water licences to take underground water
Water licences to take underground water
sec.64
Water licences to take underground water to contain particular matters
sec.64 Water licences to take underground water to contain particular matters
This section applies to a water licence to take underground water to which this plan applies in the underground water management area.
If, under section 70 (1) (e) of the Act , a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the water licence to be amended to state a relevant matter, the licence is inconsistent with this plan unless the relevant matter is stated in the licence.
See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
In this section—
relevant matter means any of the following matters—
a condition to which the water licence is subject;
a purpose for which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence;
a nominal entitlement for the water licence;
the underground water sub-area or the underground water zone to which the water licence relates;
if the water taken under the water licence must be from a particular underground water sub-unit—the underground water sub-unit;
if the water licence relocation rules apply to the water licence—the latitude and longitude for the point at which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence.
water licence relocation rules means the rules, stated in the water management protocol for this plan, about a dealing with a water licence to which section 126 of the Act applies.
(sec.64-ssec.1) This section applies to a water licence to take underground water to which this plan applies in the underground water management area.
(sec.64-ssec.2) If, under section 70 (1) (e) of the Act , a water entitlement notice for this plan provides for the water licence to be amended to state a relevant matter, the licence is inconsistent with this plan unless the relevant matter is stated in the licence. See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
(sec.64-ssec.3) In this section— relevant matter means any of the following matters— a condition to which the water licence is subject; a purpose for which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence; a nominal entitlement for the water licence; the underground water sub-area or the underground water zone to which the water licence relates; if the water taken under the water licence must be from a particular underground water sub-unit—the underground water sub-unit; if the water licence relocation rules apply to the water licence—the latitude and longitude for the point at which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence. water licence relocation rules means the rules, stated in the water management protocol for this plan, about a dealing with a water licence to which section 126 of the Act applies.
(a) a condition to which the water licence is subject;
(b) a purpose for which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence;
(c) a nominal entitlement for the water licence;
(d) the underground water sub-area or the underground water zone to which the water licence relates;
(e) if the water taken under the water licence must be from a particular underground water sub-unit—the underground water sub-unit;
(f) if the water licence relocation rules apply to the water licence—the latitude and longitude for the point at which water to which this plan applies may be taken under the water licence.
pt.10-div.6
Particular water licences inconsistent with this plan
Particular water licences inconsistent with this plan
sec.65
Water licences with stated purpose of irrigation
sec.65 Water licences with stated purpose of irrigation
A water licence with the stated purpose of irrigation is inconsistent with this plan unless the water licence is subject to a condition that water taken under the water licence must not be stored.
See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
sec.66
Water licences authorising the taking of water in Glen Niven tributaries zone
sec.66 Water licences authorising the taking of water in Glen Niven tributaries zone
A water licence authorising the taking of water in the Glen Niven tributaries zone is inconsistent with this plan unless—
the purpose for which water may be taken under the water licence is stated in the water licence as ‘any’; and
if the water licence states an area that may be irrigated by water taken under the water licence—the area is removed from the water licence and replaced with an annual volumetric limit for taking water under the water licence, calculated by multiplying the area, in hectares, by 6; and
the water licence states the maximum rate at which water may be taken under the water licence.
See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
The Glen Niven tributaries zone is a water management area zone.
If the water licence is amended to state a maximum rate at which water may be taken under the water licence, the maximum rate must be—
if a development permit that relates to the water licence states a pump size—
for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to—
the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to—
the purpose stated in the water licence; and
the rate at which the chief executive estimates water is able to be taken under the water licence.
(sec.66-ssec.1) A water licence authorising the taking of water in the Glen Niven tributaries zone is inconsistent with this plan unless— the purpose for which water may be taken under the water licence is stated in the water licence as ‘any’; and if the water licence states an area that may be irrigated by water taken under the water licence—the area is removed from the water licence and replaced with an annual volumetric limit for taking water under the water licence, calculated by multiplying the area, in hectares, by 6; and the water licence states the maximum rate at which water may be taken under the water licence. See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan. The Glen Niven tributaries zone is a water management area zone.
(sec.66-ssec.2) If the water licence is amended to state a maximum rate at which water may be taken under the water licence, the maximum rate must be— if a development permit that relates to the water licence states a pump size— for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— the purpose stated in the water licence; and the rate at which the chief executive estimates water is able to be taken under the water licence.
(a) the purpose for which water may be taken under the water licence is stated in the water licence as ‘any’; and
(b) if the water licence states an area that may be irrigated by water taken under the water licence—the area is removed from the water licence and replaced with an annual volumetric limit for taking water under the water licence, calculated by multiplying the area, in hectares, by 6; and
(c) the water licence states the maximum rate at which water may be taken under the water licence.
1 See section 133 (2) of the Act for the actions the chief executive must take if a water licence is inconsistent with a water plan.
2 The Glen Niven tributaries zone is a water management area zone.
(a) if a development permit that relates to the water licence states a pump size— (i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or (ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or (iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or (iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
(ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
(iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
(iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(b) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (i) the purpose stated in the water licence; and (ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water is able to be taken under the water licence.
(i) the purpose stated in the water licence; and
(ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water is able to be taken under the water licence.
(i) for a stated pump size of 32mm—0.5ML a day; or
(ii) for a stated pump size of 125mm—7.3ML a day; or
(iii) for a stated pump size, other than 32mm or 125mm, mentioned in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 1—the rate stated in schedule 7 , column 2 of that regulation for the pump size; or
(iv) otherwise—the rate decided by the chief executive having regard to— (A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and (B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(A) the rates stated in subparagraphs (i) and (ii) ; and
(B) the rates stated for similar pump sizes, other than 32mm or 125mm, in the Water Regulation 2016 , schedule 7 , column 2; or
(i) the purpose stated in the water licence; and
(ii) the rate at which the chief executive estimates water is able to be taken under the water licence.
pt.10-div.7
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous
sec.67
Accounting period for water licences— Water Regulation 2016 , s 142
sec.67 Accounting period for water licences— Water Regulation 2016 , s 142
For the Water Regulation 2016 , section 142 (a) , the accounting period for a water licence to take water to which this plan applies is 1 July to 30 June in the following year.
pt.11
Water allocations
Water allocations
pt.11-div.1
Surface water
Surface water
sec.68
Water allocation groups— Act , sch 4
sec.68 Water allocation groups— Act , sch 4
For schedule 4 of the Act , definition water allocation group , a group of water allocations is a water allocation group, for unsupplemented surface water, if each water allocation in the group—
states the same water allocation group mentioned in schedule 8 , column 3 (the water allocation group identifier ); and
authorises the taking of unsupplemented surface water—
in the water management area zone mentioned in schedule 8 , column 1 opposite the water allocation group identifier; and
from the water source mentioned in schedule 8 , column 2 opposite the water allocation group identifier.
(a) states the same water allocation group mentioned in schedule 8 , column 3 (the water allocation group identifier ); and
(b) authorises the taking of unsupplemented surface water— (i) in the water management area zone mentioned in schedule 8 , column 1 opposite the water allocation group identifier; and (ii) from the water source mentioned in schedule 8 , column 2 opposite the water allocation group identifier.
(i) in the water management area zone mentioned in schedule 8 , column 1 opposite the water allocation group identifier; and
(ii) from the water source mentioned in schedule 8 , column 2 opposite the water allocation group identifier.
(i) in the water management area zone mentioned in schedule 8 , column 1 opposite the water allocation group identifier; and
(ii) from the water source mentioned in schedule 8 , column 2 opposite the water allocation group identifier.
sec.69
Amending particular water allocations— Act , s 150
sec.69 Amending particular water allocations— Act , s 150
This section applies to a water allocation with an identifying number mentioned in column 1 of an amendment table.
For section 150 (1) (a) of the Act , the water allocation must be amended to ensure—
if column 2 of the amendment table states a water management area zone for the water allocation—the water management area zone for the water allocation is the stated water management area zone; and
if column 2 of the amendment table states a purpose for the water allocation—the purpose of the water allocation is the stated purpose; and
if column 2 of the amendment table states a water allocation group for the water allocation—the water allocation group for the water allocation is the stated water allocation group; and
if column 2 of the amendment table states a location from which water may be taken under the water allocation—water may only be taken under the water allocation from the stated location; and
if column 2 of the amendment table states ‘no conditions’—the only condition applying to the water allocation is a flow condition; and
if column 2 of the amendment table states a condition for the water allocation—the water allocation is subject to the stated condition or another condition that has the same effect as the stated condition.
To remove any doubt, it is declared that if an existing detail of, or condition imposed on, the water allocation is inconsistent with an amendment required under subsection (2) , the existing detail or condition must be also amended or removed, but only to the extent necessary to avoid the inconsistency.
In this section—
amendment table means a table in schedule 14 , part 1 or 2 .
(sec.69-ssec.1) This section applies to a water allocation with an identifying number mentioned in column 1 of an amendment table.
(sec.69-ssec.2) For section 150 (1) (a) of the Act , the water allocation must be amended to ensure— if column 2 of the amendment table states a water management area zone for the water allocation—the water management area zone for the water allocation is the stated water management area zone; and if column 2 of the amendment table states a purpose for the water allocation—the purpose of the water allocation is the stated purpose; and if column 2 of the amendment table states a water allocation group for the water allocation—the water allocation group for the water allocation is the stated water allocation group; and if column 2 of the amendment table states a location from which water may be taken under the water allocation—water may only be taken under the water allocation from the stated location; and if column 2 of the amendment table states ‘no conditions’—the only condition applying to the water allocation is a flow condition; and if column 2 of the amendment table states a condition for the water allocation—the water allocation is subject to the stated condition or another condition that has the same effect as the stated condition.
(sec.69-ssec.3) To remove any doubt, it is declared that if an existing detail of, or condition imposed on, the water allocation is inconsistent with an amendment required under subsection (2) , the existing detail or condition must be also amended or removed, but only to the extent necessary to avoid the inconsistency.
(sec.69-ssec.4) In this section— amendment table means a table in schedule 14 , part 1 or 2 .
(a) if column 2 of the amendment table states a water management area zone for the water allocation—the water management area zone for the water allocation is the stated water management area zone; and
(b) if column 2 of the amendment table states a purpose for the water allocation—the purpose of the water allocation is the stated purpose; and
(c) if column 2 of the amendment table states a water allocation group for the water allocation—the water allocation group for the water allocation is the stated water allocation group; and
(d) if column 2 of the amendment table states a location from which water may be taken under the water allocation—water may only be taken under the water allocation from the stated location; and
(e) if column 2 of the amendment table states ‘no conditions’—the only condition applying to the water allocation is a flow condition; and
(f) if column 2 of the amendment table states a condition for the water allocation—the water allocation is subject to the stated condition or another condition that has the same effect as the stated condition.
sec.70
Definitions for subdivision
sec.70 Definitions for subdivision
In this subdivision—
converted water allocation see section 72 (1) .
Stanthorpe allocation means a converted water allocation to take unsupplemented surface water to which this plan applies from a watercourse, lake or spring in the Stanthorpe water management area, other than the Glen Niven tributaries zone.
The Glen Niven tributaries zone is a water management area zone.
Upper Weir allocation means a converted water allocation to take unsupplemented surface water to which this plan applies from Brigalow Creek, Commoron Creek, Murri Murri Creek or Yambocully Creek.
sec.71
Purpose of subdivision
sec.71 Purpose of subdivision
This subdivision states, for section 43 (2) (g) of the Act , arrangements and processes for converting, under a water entitlement notice for this plan, particular authorisations to water allocations to take unsupplemented surface water to which this plan applies.
More sections below
Source text: opening excerpt
Sourced from Queensland Legislation (legislation.qld.gov.au), CC BY 4.0.
pt.1 Preliminary
Preliminary
sec.1 Short title
sec.1 Short title
This plan may be cited as the Water Plan (Border Rivers and Moonie) 2019 .
sec.2 Purposes of plan
sec.2 Purposes of plan
The purposes of this plan are to—
define the availability of water to which this plan applies; and
provide a framework for sustainably managing water to which this plan applies; and
identify priorities and mechanisms for dealing with the future water requirements in the plan area; and
provide a framework for managing water allocations; and
provide a framework for reversing, where practicable, the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
(a) define the availability of water to which this plan applies; and
(b) provide a framework for sustainably managing water to which this plan applies; and
(c) identify priorities and mechanisms for dealing with the future water requirements in the plan area; and
(d) provide a framework for managing water allocations; and
(e) provide a framework for reversing, where practicable, the degradation of natural ecosystems caused by the taking of, or interference with, water to which this plan applies.
sec.3 Definitions
sec.3 Definitions
The dictionary in schedule 15 defines particular words used in this plan.
sec.4 Meaning of surface water
sec.4 Meaning of surface water
Surface water is—
water in a watercourse or lake; or
water in a spring not connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies; or
overland flow water, other than water in a spring connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies.
(a) water in a watercourse or lake; or
(b) water in a spring not connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies; or
(c) overland flow water, other than water in a spring connected to water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 applies.
sec.5 References to latitudes and longitudes
sec.5 References to latitudes and longitudes
The latitudes and longitudes used to describe a location mentioned in this plan are worked out using GDA94.
In this section—
GDA94 means the Geocentric Datum of Australia, commonly called ‘GDA 94’, notified in the Commonwealth Government Gazette No. GN 35 on 6 September 1995, at page 3369.
(sec.5-ssec.1) The latitudes and longitudes used to describe a location mentioned in this plan are worked out using GDA94.
(sec.5-ssec.2) In this section— GDA94 means the Geocentric Datum of Australia, commonly called ‘GDA 94’, notified in the Commonwealth Government Gazette No. GN 35 on 6 September 1995, at page 3369.
The stated rationales in the instrument include sustainable management, interstate consistency with NSW, improving market operation for water allocations, and reversing ecosystem degradation (s2; s20). The plan operationalises those rationales through model-based performance indicators, prescribed decision rules, measurement deadlines, conversion processes for existing authorisations, and an explicit water management protocol prescribing trading, seasonal assignment and monitoring arrangements (s89).
Main concepts
The plan rests on a small set of core legal and technical concepts. Water to which the plan applies is surface water and underground water not covered by the Great Artesian Basin plan (s6). Surface water includes water in watercourses, lakes, certain springs and overland flow (s4). The plan area is mapped and subdivided into catchments, water management areas and zones, water supply schemes and underground water units and sub-units; those geographic divisions are controlling (ss8-16; schedules 1-6).
Trading zones are defined as water supply scheme zones, water management area zones and underground water zones (s16). Nodes are model points used to calculate flow and groundwater performance indicators; their modelled locations are specified and the simulation software for nodes is fixed (s17). Performance indicators for environmental flows are specified in schedule 7 part 1 (surface water) and part 2 (underground water), and include precise numeric flow thresholds and duration metrics (sch 7 s1-s7). Water allocation security objectives for surface water use performance ratios and for underground water use annual announcement volume probabilities (ss30-31; schedules 8-9).
"Existing works" and "existing underground water works" are technical concepts that determine whether certain activities may proceed without a licence or with limited procedural hurdles; the plan sets firm temporal thresholds for works to qualify as existing (ss38, 40, 41). The plan distinguishes overland flow water from other surface or groundwater: s7 declares certain shallow underground water in the Border Rivers Fractured Rock (Granite Belt) to be overland flow water where it is not more than 6m below the surface, unless the chief executive is satisfied there is no hydraulic connection.
Unallocated water reserved under the plan is allocated by reference to schedule 10 for both surface and underground water; performance indicator calculations assume that reserved unallocated water is being taken (s32, s43). Conversion of older permits and licences into converted water allocations is a mechanism in the plan (s72, s82); the chief executive has constrained but mandatory functions to grant specified licences or ancillary licences where the water entitlement notice provides for it (ss48-51). The water management protocol is a central implementation instrument which must specify unallocated water volumes, seasonal assignment rules, dealing rules, water sharing rules and monitoring requirements (s89).
Operationally important technical points are repeated across provisions: the eWater Source and MODFLOW computer programs and associated statistical programs are the baseline modelling tools to be used in assessments (s17, s37), and specific numeric thresholds for pump sizes and corresponding maximum rates are imported by reference to the Water Regulation 2016 schedule 7 and applied in working out maximum rates and licence conditions (ss53, 57, 78).
Who it affects
The plan imposes legal effects on a broad set of actors. Primary regulated parties are holders of water entitlements and water licences within the plan area, whether those entitlements relate to surface water, overland flow or underground water (s6; pt 10-11). Persons taking overland flow water for stock and domestic purposes, or taking contaminated agricultural run-off under obligations in the Environmental Protection Act 1994, are subject to particular record-keeping and qualification rules (ss39, 88). Landowners who own works for capturing overland flow are in scope for the allocation process and notice requirements (s62).
Local governments have a special path: a local government may apply for a licence to interfere with flow to impound water to supply town water, but s45 requires the chief executive to accept such an application only if a "relevant change application" has been made or already approved under s159 of the principal Act. The Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder (CEWH) is specifically recognised as a holder of environmental entitlements relevant to environmental water plan outcomes (s24).
The chief executive and the administering department are central decision-makers and implementers: they must direct measurement, publish water use reports, prepare monitoring strategies and the water management protocol, identify works declared overland flow for non-stock purposes, and record and publish determinations of environmental share (ss25, 89, 25(3)-(5)). Authorised officers have inspection powers under the Act, which are referenced when record-keeping and information notices are mandated (s88 referencing ss35 and 760 of the Act).
Consultants, hydrogeologists and model operators are affected because the plan prescribes the modelling tools and certified reports: nodes are fixed by eWater Source or MODFLOW (s17); decisions about consistency with objectives must use the model computer program simulation or Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool, unless another assessment is approved by the chief executive (s37). Where owners seek licences for works, the chief executive may require certified reports and must have regard to them when setting maximum rates or storage capacities (ss57-58, 62).
Market participants are affected by trading and allocation rules. The plan defines trading zones (s16), requires analysis and publication regarding entitlement trades (s26(1)-(3)), reserves unallocated water (s43; schedule 10), and requires the water management protocol to set water allocation dealing rules and seasonal assignment rules (s89). Entities proposing dealings that would be inconsistent with the plan can trigger statutory processes under the Water Act (s47 referencing ss129-130 of the Act).
Finally, communities and ecological stakeholders are affected by measures to protect environmental outcomes: schedule 7 supplies specific environmental flow targets (sch 7 s1-s7) and the plan imposes duties on decision-makers to protect environmental and cultural values (ss20-24).
Key duties and rights
The plan sets duties on decision-makers, licence applicants and water users, and recognises certain rights. The chief executive’s duties are central: to prepare and publish a water use report annually including compliance with sustainable diversion limits (s25(2)); to develop a monitoring, evaluation and reporting strategy by 1 July 2020 (s25(6)); to identify works associated with overland flow declared under s7 for non-stock/non-domestic purposes by 30 June 2024 (s25(3)); to prepare a water management protocol covering specified matters (s89); to record and publish each determination of environmental share (s25(4)); and to accept or refuse certain applications in accordance with plan rules (ss44-47, 48-51).
Decision-making constraints: decisions under chapter 2 of the Act that allocate or manage water must not increase the average volume of surface or underground water that may be taken under the plan, nor the combined total of nominal entitlements for underground licences (s35). Decisions must also be consistent with the environmental flow objectives and water allocation security objectives appropriate to the water type (s36). To assess consistency, the model computer program simulation must be used for surface/underground environmental flow objectives and water allocation security objectives for surface water; the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) decision support tool must be used for the underground allocation-security objective (s37). If the model tools are not practicable, the chief executive may approve another assessment (s37(3)).
Measurement and monitoring duties fall on licence holders as directed by the chief executive: all water allocations were required to be measured as directed by the chief executive by 31 December 2022; all licences for underground water in specified units were to be measured by 31 December 2025; and all relevant taking of overland flow water was to be measured by 31 December 2022 (s25(1)). The plan requires licence and allocation content: overland flow licences must state purpose ‘any’ and include one or more of maximum rate, maximum storage capacity, average annual volume or volumetric limit (s56); water licences for Glen Niven tributaries zone and others must meet specific content requirements (s66). Converted allocations must contain stipulated conditions (ss72-79).
Rights and entitlements: the plan recognises the existing authorisations and provides a path for conversion to water allocations (ss72, 82). Where a water entitlement notice provides for the grant of particular licences, the chief executive must decide to grant the licences (ss48-51). Holders of converted allocations retain the authority to take water under their converted allocation and, where ancillary licences are granted, those ancillary authorities are additional (s55). The plan also preserves domestic and stock-taking rights in multiple provisions (ss39, 40).
Procedural rights include notice and information steps: before granting licences for existing overland flow works the chief executive must give the owner a notice identifying the works and may request a certified report; the owner has an opportunity to supply that certified report (s62). Applications for dealings inconsistent with the plan attract the statutory procedures under the Act, as flagged in ss47 and 129-130 of the Act (s47(1)-(3)).
Penalties and enforcement
The plan itself primarily sets rules, conditions and decision-making limits; it references the enforcement and information powers in the Water Act 2000 rather than creating independent penalty provisions. Where the plan mandates record-keeping and directed information, enforcement mechanisms and information notices are tied to cross-referenced Act provisions: s88 requires persons taking contaminated agricultural run-off under obligations of the Environmental Protection Act 1994 to make and retain records for 5 years and explicitly references the chief executive’s power to require information under s35 of the Act and an authorised officer’s inspection powers under s760 of the Act. Those referenced Act provisions contain enforcement, notice and penalty machinery; the plan directs their use rather than restating penalties.
The plan creates statutory inconsistency consequences: if a water licence is inconsistent with the water plan because the water entitlement notice required it to be amended (for example s63), the chief executive must take the actions required by s133(2) of the Act within a stated time (60 business days after the making of the water entitlement notice) (s63). Similarly, s47 references ss129 and 130 of the Act for how to deal with a dealing that would be inconsistent with the plan.
Operational enforcement is mediated through the chief executive’s control of acceptances and approvals. The chief executive must not accept applications for water licences unless permitted under ss45-46 (s44). The plan obliges the chief executive to refuse or grant licences according to specified criteria; refusal powers can be exercised if matters in s113 of the Act weigh against granting (s61(3)). Where the plan requires measurement and reporting, failure by a licence holder to comply may expose them to information notices and inspection and to whatever penalties the Water Act provides for non-compliance with directions, reporting and record-keeping requirements.
For conversion and allocation decisions, the plan constrains the chief executive’s discretion: for certain water entitlement notices that provide for specified grants, the chief executive must decide to grant a named licence (ss48-51). Conversely, individuals seeking new or increased taking that would be inconsistent with the plan may face statutory refusal or the requirement to undertake compensating changes to allocations or conditions (s47; s35).
In short, plan-level enforcement is exercised by the executive through the statutory machinery of the Water Act, via information notices, inspection, refusal/acceptance of applications, and the statutory consequences where licences are inconsistent with the plan (see ss44-47, 62, 63, 88 and cross-references to Act ss35, 760, 129, 130, 133).
How it interacts with other laws
The plan operates as an instrument under the Water Act 2000 and is heavily cross-referential. It implements s43 of the Act by identifying water to which the plan applies, water management areas, objectives and arrangements (see ss6, 10, 28-31 and s89). Multiple provisions of the plan explicitly reference steps and remedial processes contained in the Act: for example, s44 references acceptance of applications under s107 of the Act; s47 references ss129-130 of the Act about inconsistency; s63 references s133(2) of the Act about inconsistent licences.
The plan also imports machinery from subordinate instruments. It refers to the Water Regulation 2016 for pump-size-to-rate conversions and other technical factors (ss53, 57, 78). For planning assessment, s42 sets the volume for State code 10 of the State development assessment provisions by referencing the Planning Regulation 2017 schedule 24, tying development assessment to the water-plan limit for contaminated agricultural run-off.
Other sectoral legislation is engaged. Section 88 situates compliance with obligations under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 as a trigger for plan-recording obligations and cross-references the Act’s inspection and information powers (s35 and s760). Section 41 uses the Water Supply (Safety and Reliability) Act 2008 concept of a "service area" to permit certain stock/domestic taking on land in a service area.
Interstate arrangements are contemplated. The plan must be consistent with "water sharing agreements and commitments between the State and New South Wales" (s20(b)), and the water management protocol may state arrangements for interstate trading (s89(3)(b)). The chief executive must ensure interstate trading arrangements are consistent with the plan’s outcomes and measures (s90).
The plan recognises Commonwealth environmental entitlements (CEWH) as relevant examples of water entitlements held only for providing benefit to the environment (s24(1)(a) and examples). Converted allocations and the treatment of environmental shares are to be recorded and published (s25(4)). Where conversion of existing authorisations is implemented by a water entitlement notice, the plan interacts with the entitlement-notice and conversion provisions of the Water Act and the Water Regulation 2016 (see ss72, 76-78 and the multiple references to the Water Regulation).
Finally, the plan replaces earlier Queensland water plans (s92), so existing administrative transitions are dictated by the plan’s transitional provisions (ss93-95). Applications and dealings made under repealed plans and not decided before commencement are either rendered of no effect or must be decided under this plan’s rules depending on whether they could have been accepted post-commencement (ss94-95).
Amendment history
The plan’s short title and commencement are set out at s1 and the purposes at s2. The instrument declares it replaces the Water Plan (Border Rivers) 2003 and Water Plan (Moonie) 2003 (s92). The text includes an express amendment note to s47: “s 47 amd 2023 Act No. 24 s 75 sch 1 pt 1,” which indicates that section 47 was amended by the 2023 Act No. 24 (as recorded in the marginal note). The plan therefore has at least one reported amendment in 2023 affecting s47’s content about dealing applications inconsistent with the plan.
The plan authorises further amendment without public consultation for a list of specified adjustments: adding or amending an environmental flow objective or allocation-security objective (provided the amendment achieves an equivalent or improved outcome), adding nodes, adjusting boundaries where more accurate information becomes available for catchments, water management areas, underground water management areas and sub-areas, changing names of underground water units or sub-units where hydrological information warrants it, or removing provisions that no longer have effect (s91). That statutory list narrows the sorts of administrative updates that can be made without public consultation.
Operationally, the plan requires the chief executive to prepare a water management protocol and to publish determinations of environmental share at least annually (s25(4), s89). Those instruments and publications will be the functional vehicles through which the plan is implemented and further operationalised or clarified. The plan also authorises the chief executive to identify works declared to be overland flow water (s25(3)) and to set measurement directions (s25(1)), each of which may create practical change without primary‑legislative amendment but within the plan’s delegated policy implementation.
The Act’s cross-references preserve the Act’s own amendment and rule-making capacity: conversion processes, water entitlement notices and the statutory processes under ss129-133 of the Act interact with the plan, so changes to those Act provisions could affect how the plan operates. The plan itself does not list a broad historical amendment record beyond the 2023 marginal note; practitioners should check the consolidated register for any further amending instruments and for the current text of the water management protocol and water entitlement notices that implement conversion and allocation mechanics.
Litigation history
The instrument, as provided, names no cases and records no judicial determinations. It repeatedly cross-references processes in the Water Act 2000 that allow for decisions and appeals under the Act’s administrative-review framework (for example the procedural steps when a dealing is inconsistent with a water plan are located at ss129-130 of the Act, which in turn may give rise to merits review or judicial review under the Act and general administrative law). The plan itself does not create or cite precedent decisions.
Practitioners should therefore treat the plan as a regulatory instrument whose application and interpretation will be tested in administrative decision-making and potentially in the courts under the same principles that apply to decisions under the Water Act. Where the plan mandates the use of model simulations to assess consistency with objectives (s37), litigation risk will focus on the appropriateness of models, data inputs, certified reports, and the exercise of discretion where alternative assessments are approved by the chief executive. Similarly, decisions that convert existing authorisations to allocations, or that refuse applications because they would increase take, are likely arenas for challenges under administrative law grounds (unreasonableness, failure to take into account mandatory considerations, or procedural unfairness), but no litigation history is recorded in the instrument itself.
Because s63, s47 and other provisions tie statutory consequences to the Act’s inconsistency and licence-amendment regime, any litigation history will likely reference the underlying Act provisions as much as the plan. Users seeking current litigation trends should check administrative and judicial databases for appeals against decisions under the Water Act made after this plan’s commencement, and for possible disputes about model assumptions, measurement implementation, and conversion calculations.
Gotchas
Several concrete implementation and compliance traps are embedded in the plan’s drafting.
Fixed technical models and nodes. The plan requires use of specific modelling tools and locates nodes by model (s17, s37). Decisions about consistency must use model computer program simulations (eWater Source, MODFLOW; s37). Where models are updated or data inputs change, the plan allows the chief executive to approve other assessments if it is not practicable to use the prescribed model, but that is discretionary (s37(3)). Practitioners should note that the plan ties many performance indicators to model outputs, so the choice of model and inputs materially affects outcomes.
Measurement deadlines and directions. The plan imposed measurement deadlines that are now historical: all water allocations were to be measured by 31 December 2022; specific underground water licence measurement deadlines to 31 December 2025 (s25(1)). Where measurement has not been completed, licence holders may be out of compliance with an existing directional obligation from the chief executive. The plan leaves the content and technical standard of measurement to the chief executive’s direction, creating implementation risk for licence holders and potential capital costs for metering.
Existing works and grandfathering are tightly dated. Qualification as "existing works" or "existing underground water works" depends on precise construction dates and, in some cases, prior notification to the chief executive (s38, s40, s41). For example, works in the Border Rivers Fractured Rock must have been constructed before 6 July 2016 or (in specified circumstances) started before 6 July 2016 and completed before 31 December 2016 with a moratorium notice given before 17 August 2016 (s40). For stock/domestic works in the Border Rivers Alluvium there is a 19 December 2014 cut‑off or an agreement between 19 December 2014 and 18 January 2015 (s41). Those dates can determine whether an operator can lawfully use a bore or pump without a full licence process.
Overland flow water is subject to narrow pathways. Taking overland flow is limited to entitlement/permit, stock/domestic, or using existing/notified existing overland flow works (s39). For works outside the Granite Belt sub-area, the chief executive may accept licence applications only if satisfied about historic use before specific dates (s46). Owners seeking new entitlements must navigate notice requirements and potential certified reports (s62).
Conversion formulas and volumetric calculations differ by zone and may alter nominal volumes significantly. Converted Stanthorpe allocations, Upper Weir allocations and Macintyre Brook allocations have different rules for nominal volume, volumetric limit and maximum rate, and the plan cross-references the Water Regulation 2016 for conversion factors (ss76-79). In some zones area-to-volume conversion uses 6 ML per hectare (s76, s77). Practitioners must check schedules and the water entitlement notice implementing conversions because the plan requires amendments to allocations consistent with schedule 14 (s69).
Water licence content requirements are prescriptive. Overland flow licences must state purpose as ‘any’ and include at least one of several quantitative limits (s56). Glen Niven licences are inconsistent unless they state purpose ‘any’, replace irrigated area with an annual volumetric limit (area × 6), and state maximum rate (s66). Licences to take underground water in the underground water management area must contain particular matters specified by any water entitlement notice (s64). These are not optional drafting preferences but conditions the chief executive must enforce, including under s63 which sets timeframes for remedying inconsistency.
Record-keeping for contaminated agricultural run-off. Persons taking contaminated agricultural run-off under the Environmental Protection Act must keep records of volume and causes and retain them for five years; this is an explicit legal duty under s88 and is subject to the Act’s inspection and information powers.
Interaction with interstate commitments. The plan requires consistency with water sharing agreements and commitments with NSW (s20(b)) and requires the chief executive to ensure interstate trading arrangements are consistent with plan outcomes and measures (s90). Practitioners involved in cross-border trade should expect additional procedural and technical steps to demonstrate consistency.
The chief executive’s discretion and mandatory duties. While the plan mandates certain chief executive actions (e.g. publishing water use reports, granting particular ancillary licences where the water entitlement notice provides for them, ss25, 48-51), it also leaves substantive modelling approvals, measurement directions and the content of the water management protocol to the chief executive, producing material operational discretion with implementation risk.
How to comply
This section lists practical compliance steps and cross-references to the plan provisions. It is a checklist to operationalise duties and to anticipate the chief executive’s enforcement levers.
Determine whether the water you use falls within the plan (s6). The plan applies to surface water and underground water not covered by the Great Artesian Basin plan (s6), and overland flow may include shallow underground water in the Border Rivers Fractured Rock where ≤6m deep (s7).
Establish whether you qualify for stock/domestic exemptions or for use of "existing works". Review the construction and notification dates specified for existing works (ss38(3), 40, 41). For Border Rivers Fractured Rock existing underground works must have been constructed before 6 July 2016 (s40); for Border Rivers Alluvium stock/domestic works specific pre-19 December 2014 dates or an agreement period apply (s41).
Metering and measurement. If you hold an allocation or licence, check whether the chief executive has directed measurement and whether your allocation was required to be measured by 31 Dec 2022 or your underground licence by 31 Dec 2025 (s25(1)). Install meters and submit data per the chief executive’s directions; note that the plan requires measurement of all water allocations and relevant overland flow taking (s25(1)).
Licence content. If you apply for or hold an overland flow licence, ensure the licence states purpose ‘any’ and includes at least one of maximum rate, storage capacity, average annual volume or volumetric limit, and any additional limits the chief executive requires (s56). For Glen Niven zone licences, replace irrigated area with an annual volumetric limit (area × 6) and ensure the licence states maximum rate (s66). For underground licences converted under a water entitlement notice, ensure the licence states the relevant matter (purpose, nominal entitlement, location, sub-area/zone, etc.) (s64).
Certified reports and notices. If the chief executive requests a certified report for works (e.g. s62(4)(a)(iii), s57, s58), prepare and supply that report within the stated period. The chief executive must have regard to certified reports when fixing maximum rates and storage capacities (ss57-58, 62(4)).
Conversion processes. If you hold an existing authorisation that will be converted under a water entitlement notice (ss72, 82), engage with the implementing notice and confirm the converted allocation’s volumetric limit, nominal volume and conditions. Pay particular attention to Stanthorpe allocations’ mandatory non-storage conditions or visible-flow conditions, multiyear accounting periods, and Upper Weir allocations’ prohibition on increasing overland flow taken (ss75-76).
Model inputs and assessment. Where decision consistency requires model simulation, be prepared to provide inputs consistent with the eWater Source or MODFLOW models and associated statistical tools (s37). If the model is not practicable, seek prior approval from the chief executive for an alternate assessment (s37(3)). For Border Rivers Alluvium (deep) allocation-security assessments, be ready to use the specified decision support tool (s37(2)).
Trading and seasonal assignments. Consult the water management protocol (s89) for the seasonal water assignment rules, water allocation dealing rules, and any relocation or interstate trading criteria. If you plan a dealing or relocation, ensure compliance with the protocol and be prepared for an underground water impact assessment where the protocol requires one (s89(3)(c)).
Record-keeping for contaminated ag run-off. If taking contaminated agricultural run-off under obligations in the Environmental Protection Act 1994, make records of volume, date and nature of the event, and any other matters required in the water management protocol; retain records for five years (s88).
Stay current on the water management protocol and published material. The chief executive must publish determinations of environmental share and a water use report, and prepare a monitoring strategy (s25). These publications will affect allocation announcements, seasonal assignment opportunities and compliance parameters.
Procedural steps for landowners with existing overland flow works. If you own the land with existing overland flow works and intend to obtain a licence, the chief executive must give you a notice identifying proposed works and may request a certified report (s62). If your works are notified existing overland flow works and the chief executive reasonably believes there has been an increase in average annual volume taken, a licence must be granted to the owner (s62(3)), subject to s113 considerations.
Prepare for audits and inspections. Records and meter data may be subject to information notices under s35 of the Act and to authorised officer inspection under s760, as referenced in s88. Ensure document retention, data integrity and audit trails for meter calibration, certified reports and daily flow records.
Legal review before dealings. Where a proposed dealing with a water licence could be inconsistent with the plan (for example, a dealing that would increase take or add a water allocation to a priority group), consult the plan’s conversion and dealing provisions (ss35, 47) and the Act’s ss129-133 processes before lodging applications.
Engage on interstate arrangements. If you participate in interstate trading, follow the arrangements set out in the water management protocol and recognise the chief executive’s duty to ensure interstate arrangements are consistent with plan outcomes and measures (s90).
These steps relate directly to statutory provisions in the plan. The plan centralises much of the technical and procedural discretion with the chief executive, so early engagement with the department, confirmation of measurement directions, certified-report requirements, and planned conversion notices is practically essential.
Section sec.5References to latitudes and longitudes
pt.2 Plan area, water to which plan applies and other matters
Plan area, water to which plan applies and other matters
sec.6 Water to which plan applies— Act , s 43
sec.6 Water to which plan applies— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (a) of the Act , this plan applies to the following water in the plan area—
surface water;
underground water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 does not apply.
(a) surface water;
(b) underground water to which the Water Plan (Great Artesian Basin and Other Regional Aquifers) 2017 does not apply.
sec.7 Underground water declared to be overland flow water— Act , s 1006A
sec.7 Underground water declared to be overland flow water— Act , s 1006A
For section 1006A (1) of the Act , underground water to which this plan applies is declared to be overland flow water if the underground water is—
from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and
The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
not more than 6m below the surface.
Subsection (1) does not apply to underground water the chief executive is satisfied is not hydraulically connected to overland flow water.
(sec.7-ssec.1) For section 1006A (1) of the Act , underground water to which this plan applies is declared to be overland flow water if the underground water is— from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit. not more than 6m below the surface.
(sec.7-ssec.2) Subsection (1) does not apply to underground water the chief executive is satisfied is not hydraulically connected to overland flow water.
(a) from the Border Rivers Fractured Rock in the Granite Belt underground water sub-area; and Note— The Border Rivers Fractured Rock is an underground water unit.
(b) not more than 6m below the surface.
sec.8 Plan area
sec.8 Plan area
This plan applies to the area shown as the plan area on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
The plan area is divided into catchments.
A reference in this plan to a catchment by name is a reference to the catchment given that name on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
(sec.8-ssec.1) This plan applies to the area shown as the plan area on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
(sec.8-ssec.2) The plan area is divided into catchments.
(sec.8-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to a catchment by name is a reference to the catchment given that name on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 .
sec.9 Water supply schemes and water supply scheme zones
sec.9 Water supply schemes and water supply scheme zones
Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 is a water supply scheme for this plan.
Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme zone on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 , and named and described in schedule 2 , part 2 , columns 2 and 3, is a water supply scheme zone.
(sec.9-ssec.1) Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 is a water supply scheme for this plan.
(sec.9-ssec.2) Each part of the plan area shown as a water supply scheme zone on the map in schedule 2 , part 1 , and named and described in schedule 2 , part 2 , columns 2 and 3, is a water supply scheme zone.
sec.10 Water management areas— Act , sch 4
sec.10 Water management areas— Act , sch 4
For schedule 4 of the Act , definition water management area , paragraph (b) , each part of the plan area shown as a water management area on a map in schedule 3 is a water management area.
A reference in this plan to a water management area by name is a reference to the water management area given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 1 of a table in schedule 3 .
For this section—
the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as—
the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as—
the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(sec.10-ssec.1) For schedule 4 of the Act , definition water management area , paragraph (b) , each part of the plan area shown as a water management area on a map in schedule 3 is a water management area.
(sec.10-ssec.2) A reference in this plan to a water management area by name is a reference to the water management area given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 1 of a table in schedule 3 .
(sec.10-ssec.3) For this section— the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(a) the Border Rivers water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— (i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and (ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and (iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
(ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
(iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(b) the Macintyre Brook water management area is the area labelled on the map in schedule 3 , part 1 , division 1 as— (i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and (ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
(ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
(i) the Border Rivers water management area Dumaresq zone; and
(ii) the Border Rivers water management area Macintyre zone; and
(iii) the Border Rivers water management area Barwon zone; and
(i) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook upstream zone; and
(ii) the Macintyre Brook water management area Macintyre Brook zone.
sec.11 Water management area zones
sec.11 Water management area zones
A water management area has 1 or more water management area zones.
Each part of the plan area shown as a water management area zone on a map in schedule 3 , and named and described in columns 2 and 3 of a table in schedule 3 , is a water management area zone .
A reference in this plan to a water management area zone by name is a reference to the water management area zone given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 2 of a table in schedule 3 .
(sec.11-ssec.1) A water management area has 1 or more water management area zones.
(sec.11-ssec.2) Each part of the plan area shown as a water management area zone on a map in schedule 3 , and named and described in columns 2 and 3 of a table in schedule 3 , is a water management area zone .
(sec.11-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to a water management area zone by name is a reference to the water management area zone given that name on a map in schedule 3 and in column 2 of a table in schedule 3 .
sec.12 Underground water management area
sec.12 Underground water management area
The part of the plan area shown as the underground water management area on the map in schedule 4 is the underground water management area .
sec.13 Underground water sub-areas
sec.13 Underground water sub-areas
Certain parts of the underground water management area are divided into underground water sub-areas.
A part of the underground water management area shown on the map in schedule 5 as an underground water sub-area is an underground water sub-area .
A reference in this plan to an underground water sub-area by name is a reference to the underground water sub-area given that name in schedule 5 .
(sec.13-ssec.1) Certain parts of the underground water management area are divided into underground water sub-areas.
(sec.13-ssec.2) A part of the underground water management area shown on the map in schedule 5 as an underground water sub-area is an underground water sub-area .
(sec.13-ssec.3) A reference in this plan to an underground water sub-area by name is a reference to the underground water sub-area given that name in schedule 5 .
sec.14 Underground water units and underground water sub-units
sec.14 Underground water units and underground water sub-units
The underground water management area includes the following aquifers (each an underground water unit )—
the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
the Border Rivers Alluvium;
the St George Alluvium (shallow);
the St George Alluvium (deep);
the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
The Border Rivers Alluvium, in the Border Rivers Alluvium underground water sub-area, is made up of the following aquifers (each an underground water sub-unit )—
for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow);
for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
(sec.14-ssec.1) The underground water management area includes the following aquifers (each an underground water unit )— the Border Rivers Fractured Rock; the Border Rivers Alluvium; the St George Alluvium (shallow); the St George Alluvium (deep); the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin; the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(sec.14-ssec.2) The Border Rivers Alluvium, in the Border Rivers Alluvium underground water sub-area, is made up of the following aquifers (each an underground water sub-unit )— for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow); for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
(a) the Border Rivers Fractured Rock;
(b) the Border Rivers Alluvium;
(c) the St George Alluvium (shallow);
(d) the St George Alluvium (deep);
(e) the sediments above the Great Artesian Basin;
(f) the Queensland Murray-Darling Basin deep.
(a) for underground water to which this plan applies above the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (shallow);
(b) for underground water to which this plan applies below the aquitard in the Border Rivers Alluvium—the Border Rivers Alluvium (deep).
sec.15 Underground water zones
sec.15 Underground water zones
Certain underground water sub-areas are divided into underground water zones.
A part of an underground water sub-area, shown on the map in schedule 6 as an underground water zone, is an underground water zone .
(sec.15-ssec.1) Certain underground water sub-areas are divided into underground water zones.
(sec.15-ssec.2) A part of an underground water sub-area, shown on the map in schedule 6 as an underground water zone, is an underground water zone .
sec.16 Trading zones— Act , s 43
sec.16 Trading zones— Act , s 43
For section 43 (1) (e) (i) of the Act , the following zones are trading zones for water allocations to which this plan applies—
a water supply scheme zone;
a water management area zone;
an underground water zone.
(a) a water supply scheme zone;
(b) a water management area zone;
(c) an underground water zone.
sec.17 Nodes
sec.17 Nodes
A node is a point in the plan area.
The modelled location of each node is identified, by a letter, on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 and is described in schedule 1 , part 2 .
A node may be referred to in this plan by its letter.
The actual location of each node is set by—
for nodes A to K—the eWater Source computer program; or
for nodes L to N—the MODFLOW computer program.
(sec.17-ssec.1) A node is a point in the plan area.
(sec.17-ssec.2) The modelled location of each node is identified, by a letter, on the map in schedule 1 , part 1 and is described in schedule 1 , part 2 .
(sec.17-ssec.3) A node may be referred to in this plan by its letter.
(sec.17-ssec.4) The actual location of each node is set by— for nodes A to K—t
This is an opening excerpt, not the complete document.