Interim aquifer regulation released

As part of their measures to regulate the coal and coal seam gas industries, the NSW Government has announced an interim aquifer interference regulation to ensure that the state's aquifers are properly protected while a final aquifer interference policy is developed.

Minister for Primary Industries Katrina Hodgkinson said the regulation is an important step for the NSW Government and allows the wider community some breathing space while proper consultation is undertaken.

“In the past there were broad exemptions for those exploring for minerals or petroleum. The new regulation puts in place a three megalitre per year cap before a water licence is needed. The new regulation also removes a previous exemption which allowed holders of aquifer interference approval to take water without a licence. Those that hold this approval will now be subject to standard water licensing procedures,” she said.

Ms Hodgkinson said the new rules would not be retrospective and would apply to any new enterprises from July 1.

“The new policy will form a vital part of the NSW Government's focus on strategic regional land use and will enable us to balance the competing needs of the environment, mining and agricultural sectors. The community is clearly concerned about the impacts of mining and coal seam gas on groundwater resources and this new regulation gives us greater control.”