A new report from the Productivity Commission (PC) finds Australia’s water resources are being managed well.
However, the report says that achievements in water reform must be maintained to make sure all people in Australia have water security.
Welcoming the PC report, Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, David Littleproud said it reaffirmed the importance of sound management of the precious resource.
“Water is one of our most valuable resources,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It keeps the whole country running and we have to make sure we are managing it as best as we can.
“This report shows all levels of Government are important in getting water management right.”
He said this was reflected in one of the key recommendations of the report which called for the Council of Australian Governments to renew the National Water Initiative (NWI) by 2020.
“The Productivity Commission found that the NWI has served Australia well and is widely regarded as a successful reform initiative, both here at home and overseas,” Mr Littleproud said.
“It recognised the NWI has provided an excellent foundation for water reform, which has had benefits for all water-users and the environment.”
However, he said there were new challenges ahead and it made sense for Governments to think about how to keep improving water management.
The Minister said the PC report provided advice on changes to national policy for the management of urban, environmental and rural water.
“We will consider the Productivity Commission recommendations closely and be looking to work with the States and Territories to further improve outcomes for Australians in accessing affordable water,” Mr. Littleproud said.
