- Comprehensive review of Exmouth groundwater allocation
- Review secures drinking water and prioritises protection of ecological, cultural, and social values of the Exmouth Peninsula
- Future-focused water planning supporting climate resilience and adaptation
A scientific review of Exmouth's groundwater allocation has secured the area's water resources to ensure areas of significant cultural and ecological values are also better protected.
The review, led by the Department of Water and Environmental Regulation, informs water licensing decisions on the Exmouth Peninsula, including future water source planning to meet existing and future demand for the Exmouth Town Water Supply Scheme.
Work on the review has also furthered the aspirations and intents of Traditional Owners in use and allocation of groundwater resources, to protect culture and heritage, and for economic purposes.
The revised allocation limits reflect updated considerations of the hydrogeology, groundwater-dependent values, water use and the potential impacts of future climate.
There are no changes to the volume of water allocated under existing groundwater licences that supply local commerce, tourism and industry, green parks and ovals, and premises that are not connected to scheme water.
The published Exmouth groundwater allocation limits reviewdocument sets out the sustainable management of the region's groundwater resources into the future to support Exmouth's community, environment, and economic growth.
The review informs future water planning to meet increased demand driven by population growth, tourism, and potential defence expansions, while protecting essential groundwater-dependent values.
For further information, visit Exmouth groundwater allocation planning .
As stated by Water Minister Don Punch:
"This review demonstrates our commitment to scientific excellence and proactive water management in the face of climate change.
"The Exmouth groundwater system is a cornerstone of the region's identity, supporting unique ecosystems and cultural heritage. This review ensures that we balance growth with sustainability.
"By protecting the aquifers now, we're not only meeting the community's needs today but also securing Exmouth's future water security, and its important and valued ecological and cultural values."
As stated by Gascoyne Minister Hannah Beazley:
"As our climate continues to change, water security is of great importance to the Gascoyne region.
"This review provides certainty for the existing water users that supply vital services and ratepayers in the peninsula, while helping adapt our management to protect highly valued environments that are under threat from climate change.
"The increased involvement of the Nganhurra Thanardi Garrbu Aboriginal Corporation, through the Yamatji Marlpa Aboriginal Corporation, in this review was highly valued - forming an integral part of our ongoing engagement with Native Title holders about the potential cultural impacts of water licencing in the region."
