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Managing groundwater extraction to extraction limits

The amount of groundwater that can be extracted from a groundwater source is limited. If the limit established in the relevant water sharing plan is exceeded, the department may need to reduce access in the following year/s to return average extraction to the limit.

Based on what we heard, the department will do the following:

  • On 1 July 2021, in groundwater sources where groundwater extraction limits have been exceeded and action is needed to return extraction to the limit, we will reduce the ‘available water determinations’ for the 2021–22 water year.
  • By 1 July 2022, we will further consider stakeholder feedback and undertake additional consultation before preparing and publishing the method the department will use to manage extraction to extraction limits in inland groundwater sources from 1 July 2022 onwards. The method that applies may differ between water sources.

  1. What we heard

    Review what we heard from the 150 participants at our face-to-face meetings and through the 80 written submissions.

  2. What is this about?

    There are two main methods available to return average extraction to the extraction limit. These methods can be used separately, or in combination.
  3. public information session

    More information

    Find out more information and view the information presented at the face-to-face information sessions held around NSW in February 2021.
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