Domestic and stock rights review

The Department of Planning and Environment is launching its first survey on domestic and stock rights to get a clearer snapshot of how water extracted under these rights is being used, and whether any changes are needed to improve the way its regulated or managed.

“The more we know about how water is being taken and used under these rights, the better we can manage it, which is why I encourage all water users to fill out this survey,” Executive Director Strategy and Policy Kaia Hodge said.

“Understanding how people use their basic water rights for domestic and stock purposes helps us to effectively manage water across NSW. This can have flow on benefits such as boosting drought resilience and creating healthier river systems.

“We want to hear about how landholders are using their domestic and stock rights and if they, or other people have any concerns around the current approach to regulation and management.”

In parallel with the survey, the Department is offering to hold meetings with stakeholder groups and organisations to hear directly about the experiences of these water users.

Ms Hodge said this review provides a great opportunity to check in with landholders and ensure they understand exactly what purposes they can use water for that is taken under domestic and stock rights.

“We are using the current engagement with domestic and stock water users to remind them of the requirements under the Water Management Act 2000,” Ms Hodge said.

“When water users understand their rights, they can be confident they are taking water within the rules. That’s a win for everyone who relies on water from rivers and aquifers.”

People have until 21 November to complete the survey.

Learn more about domestic and stock rights and complete the survey.