- Consultation Draft - Fitzroy-Derby water management plan released for public consultation
- Developed through consultation with industry, community stakeholders and Traditional Owners
- Draft plan will inform the future management of water resources across the Fitzroy Valley and the Derby Peninsula
- Delivering on election commitment to protect Fitzroy River
A Cook Government draft plan outlining a clear, science-based framework for managing the Fitzroy River catchment and the Derby Peninsula has been released for public consultation.
Consultation Draft - Fitzroy-Derby water management plan, brings together years of hydrogeological and environmental studies, along with extensive consultation with stakeholders and Traditional Owners.
The proposal delivers on an election commitment to protect the Fitzroy River while supporting sustainable economic opportunities for Kimberley communities, environmental priorities and pastoral interests.
As one of Australia's most important freeflowing rivers, the Fitzroy River holds significant cultural, ecological and social value. The draft plan prioritises safeguarding these values while enabling sustainable regional growth.
It reaffirms the State Government's position that the river and its tributaries will not be dammed and proposes groundwater allocation limits to support drinking water security for towns, Aboriginal communities and pastoral operations.
The government is also suggesting a Water Advisory Committee to support longterm involvement of all stakeholders in water planning and management.
The draft plan is open for public consultation for three months through online and inperson submissions. Community information sessions will be held in Perth, Broome, Derby, Halls Creek and Fitzroy Crossing, alongside continued engagement with Traditional Owners, local stakeholders and industry.
For more information visit: consult.dwer.wa.gov.au/water-policy/consultation-draft-fitzroy-derby-water-resources
As stated by Water and Climate Resilience Minister Don Punch:
"The release of this draft plan marks an important step in giving Kimberley communities certainty about how their water resources will be managed and delivers on our election commitment to protect the Fitzroy River.
"Traditional Owners have played a central role in shaping this draft plan, and their knowledge will remain vital as we finalise a sustainable water future for the region. I thank them for their guidance and commitment to the planning process.
"I encourage everyone to provide feedback on how the plan balances cultural, environmental and economic needs. Community insight is essential to building a resilient, longterm water strategy for the Kimberley."
As stated by Kimberley MLA Divina D'nna:
"The Kimberley is a unique place, shaped by its people and cultures and this draft plan recognises those values and supports responsible, community-focused development.
"The consultation period is an important opportunity for people across the Kimberley to contribute their views and participate in decisions made in our region. It is especially important that Aboriginal voices are heard, given their deep cultural connection to water and Country and their knowledge and cultural perspectives that are essential in shaping respectful and sustainable outcomes."
