Australia's water management is guided by a complex framework of policies and legislation at federal, state, and local levels.
Key Water Policies and Legislation
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Water Act 2007
- Established the Murray-Darling Basin Authority
- Set national water standards
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National Water Initiative (NWI)
- Intergovernmental agreement on water reform
- Principles for water trading and planning
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State Water Acts
- Vary by state but generally cover water allocation and licensing
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Environmental Water Policies
- Commonwealth Environmental Water Holder
- State-based environmental water programs
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Urban Water Management Policies
- Water sensitive urban design guidelines
- Stormwater management regulations
For detailed information, visit the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water