- The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment with new draft Pioneer Valley Water plan open for public consultation.
- The draft water plan to help deliver water security for the Mackay region into the future.
- Feedback will help to finalise the new water plan, with consultation closing on 19 December 2025.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future and a fresh start.
Public consultation is open on the new draft Pioneer Valley water plan, as part of the Crisafulli Government's plan to deliver a fresh start for Queensland.
It's just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future and helping secure water security for the Mackay region.
The draft water plan has been informed by extensive stakeholder engagement and scientific assessments and proposes local management strategies to help protect the environment and provide solutions for cultural water needs.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering on a key election commitment, after promising to meet the growing needs of the State through the Watertight Water Security Plan.
Proposed changes balance user needs while managing unique local issues, including seawater intrusion and ensuring important freshwater flows to the Great Barrier Reef.
The draft plan also supports continued flexibility in water trading, access of up to 5ML (megalitres) of surface water for low-risk activities and improved flexibility for the release of Unallocated Water Reserves.
Minister for Local Government, Water and Volunteers Ann Leahy said that community and stakeholder feedback on the draft water plan was critical.
"Mackay is one of Queensland's key regional centres, home to a growing population of more than 126,000 people, with strong agriculture, tourism and resource sectors," Minister Leahy said.
"This water plan will manage water resources across the region in the decade ahead. Hearing feedback from water users across the Pioneer Valley will help to ensure the new plan meets the expectations of the community and stakeholders and will serve the region well in the future.
"I encourage those of you interested to get involved, review the draft plan and have your say."
Consultation is now open and will close 19 December 2025.
To find more information about the draft Pioner Valley water plan and how to share your feedback, visit the Business Queensland website.
