The Department of Local Government, Water and Volunteers (DLGWV) is seeking input from North Queensland irrigators who require additional water to operate or expand in the Whitsunday region.
Expressions of interest are now open in various subcatchments within the Whitsunday Water Plan area, and submissions will help inform the demand for making unallocated water available for release.
The DLGWV Executive Director, North Region, Ingrid Fomiatti Minnesma, stated that 26,800 ML of general reserve unallocated water was available under the Whitsunday water plan, and the department was eager to support both new and existing agricultural industries.
“Unallocated water is set aside as part of water plans to help accommodate future needs that may arise, without affecting water available for current water users, cultural values or the environment,” Fomiatti Minnesma said.
“We know there is interest in accessing unallocated water in the Whitsunday region to support cane growers, and we’d like to understand that better. However, we are also keen to hear from other agricultural water users, as well as those with interests in industrial, urban water security, or the uses of First Nations peoples.
“Once our department has a clear idea of that demand, we can help make this additional water available to support the purposes that will deliver the most beneficial outcomes for the Whitsunday community.
“I encourage interested parties to take the time to assess their needs and put forward a proposal. We will also meet with stakeholders next month to discuss water demands and invite others to make contact should they wish to be involved,” she said.
Submissions will close on 31 July 2025.
For more information and to register interest, visit: www.business.qld.gov.au/industries/mining-energy-water/water/catchments-planning/unallocated-water/eoi/whitsunday-general-reserve
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