Inland Waters
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for the use of available public open space. The Plans integrate the fields of
planning, engineering, and environmental management to identify objectives for
each catchment, and design an efficient mix of investments and strategies.
The first SMP to be undertaken by Council is addressing the North Arm East
catchment, and will be completed in 2013. A joint project is also being
conducted with the City of Charles Sturt to prepare a SMP for the Torrens Road
catchment.
Water Industry Act 2011
The South Australian - Water for Good Plan
indicates the need to implement a
reform package aimed at better reflecting a contemporary water industry.
Following public consultation, the Water Industry Act 2011 was passed by
Parliament. These reforms will recognise the growing water supply and
sewerage service industry, provide a single legislative focus for water planning
and service delivery, and provide a comprehensive regulatory framework to
promote efficiency, public safety, and effective environmental protection.
The
Water Industry Act
will provide broad direction on many matters and enable
details to be established through other measures. Particular components of the
Water Industry Act include -
•
Water planning provisions, including State Demand and Supply
Statements
•
The role and function of the Essential Services Commission
•
The role and function of a Technical Regulator
•
Licensing of entities operating in the water industry
•
Standard terms and conditions for retail services
•
Third party access to infrastructure
•
Protection of water and sewerage infrastructure
•
Protection and use of water supplies, including water restrictions and
water conservation measures
•
Technical and safety issues in relation to the water industry.
A particular point of interest for Council in regards to the
Water Industry Act
is
the new water planning regime that will require quantity and quality assessment
of all current and potential water resources across regions. This information will
be compiled into a document known as the "State Water Demand and Supply
Statement". The Statement will include strategies and policies that are
appropriate to secure a reliable and sustainable supply of water within the
State. The Minister has the responsibility of administrating this process on
behalf of the
Water Industry Act.
