The McGowan Government has addressed the concerns of water users in the North Wanneroo area after community consultation highlighted the impact of reductions in groundwater allocations to growers in the area.
In 2016, under the previous Liberal National Government, it was originally proposed that there would be reductions in groundwater allocations of 25 per cent.
Last year, the North Wanneroo Agriculture and Water Taskforce investigated options to support agriculture while addressing the issue of declining water availability in Carabooda and Nowergup.
Following the taskforce report, Water Minister Dave Kelly will propose a 10 per cent reduction to groundwater allocations for growers in the North Wanneroo area from 2028 – more than halving the 25 per cent originally proposed.
The proposed reduction will be included in the draft Gnangara groundwater allocation plan, which will be released for consultation later this year.
The Department of Water and Environmental Regulation is also working with the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development to assist North Wanneroo growers – piloting independent water use assessments and developing best practice irrigation demonstration sites.
The new Gnangara groundwater allocation plan will be released for a three-month public comment period.
As noted by Water Minister Dave Kelly:
“Because of climate change, groundwater taken from Perth’s groundwater aquifers north of the Swan River needs to be reduced within the next decade.
“This will ensure groundwater remains a long-term viable and low-cost water source for Perth, and continues to support important wetlands and vegetation around our city.
“The 10 per cent reduction to groundwater use will not be implemented until 2028.
“This scale and timeframe for this reduction will make it easier for people to adjust.”
As noted by Wanneroo MLA Sabine Winton:
“I am really proud that the McGowan Labor Government has resolved what has been a longstanding issue around water security in Wanneroo.
“I am very pleased with this decision that strikes a balance between meeting the needs of our growers and ensuring long-term water sustainability for the wider community.
“I have delivered on our election commitment by listening and consulting widely, providing water certainty for the agricultural sector in Wanneroo.”
