Outcome:	1. Environment			Question No:  57
Division/Agency:	Water Resources Division
Topic:	Water Resources – Impact on Local Government
Hansard Page ECITA:	Written Question on Notice

Senator Lundy asked:
1. What are the implications for Local Government Authorities for water storage, water management, water infrastructure and ownership arising out of the Government's $10 billion initiative?

2. Did the Government consult with Local Governments in the lead up to the announcement of the water initiatives? What was the nature of this consultation, who was consulted and when did it take place?

3. Have Local Governments been consulted since the announcement of the Government's water initiative? What was the nature of this consultation, who was consulted and when did it take place?

4. Has there been any feedback from Local Governments or their representatives regarding the proposed water plans – what is the nature of this feedback?

5. Has there been any feedback from local communities or residents regarding the proposed water plans – what is the nature of this feedback?

Answer/s:
1.	Under the National Plan for Water Security, states will retain ownership of the infrastructure.  Local government’s responsibility for town water treatment and reticulation will remain unchanged. 

2.	No.

3.	On 14 March 2007, the Government conducted a stakeholder consultation, inviting various non-government organisations, local government authorities, indigenous representatives and key associations relating to the National Plan for Water Security. 

All state Local Government Associations were invited to attend these consultations, however only the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA), the Local Government and Shires Association of New South Wales and the Municipal Association of Victoria attended. 

4.	There has been minimal feedback from Local Governments regarding the National Plan for Water Security following the stakeholder consultation held 14 March 2007.  Most of this feedback concerns water sharing and the security of irrigation entitlements under the National Plan.

5.	There has been considerable support from local communities and residents for the National Plan, particularly the streamlining of water arrangements and funding for efficiency improvements.  Concerns about water sharing plans and allocations have been expressed, however stakeholders have been advised that existing water sharing plans will be honoured and allocation regimes will be maintained under the National Plan.