The SA Government has commenced consultation on a draft Water Security Statement.

The statement is meant to summarise South Australia’s water resources, how they are used and strategies to secure supplies for the future. 

Minister for Environment and Water David Speirs says there is a need to balance water for people, communities, industry and the environment.

“The draft Water Security Statement considers how we can make sure we have the water we need to support the state’s economic growth targets, a vibrant society and healthy environments,” Mr Spiers said.

“Past water-related investments in infrastructure and reforms across South Australia have provided high levels of water security for the vast majority of the state’s population.

“Water availability, however, is projected to decline across the state under a changing climate and there is also increasing demand for water to support growth in agriculture, mining and energy, as well as for growing towns and cities.

“The key challenge now is to build on past investment to ensure all South Australians have adequate water security and to grow the South Australian economy in a sustainable way.”

The SA Government is reportedly working on a list of strategic priorities to inform the government’s water security program up to July 2024.

“A key new element of our proposed water security program includes the development of targeted water security strategies,” Mr Spiers said.

“These strategies will supplement traditional water planning in regions, or for sectors, where there is evidence that a lack of water may limit long-term growth.

“People, communities, industry and the environment all rely on ongoing, reliable and affordable access to water and water security planning will be critical to safeguard our water supplies into the future.”

Consultation on the draft Water Security Statement is open until June 18.