Improving urban water quality regulation - phase 1
| Objective: | The project seeks to contribute to specific National Water Initiative (NWI) objectives to promote safe and secure water supplies and increase recycling (NWI Para 90i-v). The review is also intended to support COAG's broader objectives for ensuring efficient regulation across the economy |
| Funding: |
$190,000 plus applicable GST |
| Jurisdiction: | National |
| Commencing: | January 2010 |
| Completed: | May 2011 |
About the project
This national project reviewed water quality regulatory approvals processes and practices across Australia, looking in particular at approval pathways for new and emerging water recycling and reuse technologies.
The project assessed the overall performance of the water quality regulatory framework in Australia. Particular problems or challenges associated with the current system were categorised, and options for rectifying problems identified. The project produced a summary of the case for reform, clearly documenting the views of various parties on the need for further reform.
The review, entailing detailed case studies of the regulatory approvals and compliance processes across Australia, was:
- based around a clearly defined framework of best-practice regulation
- informed by consultation with regulators, industry participants, government policy makers and other stakeholders.
Project benefits
This review provides information on the need for further work at either a national or state level to improve the regulation of water quality in Australia, particularly with regard to emerging water recycling and reuse technologies.
The project contributes to Council of Australian Governments (COAG) objectives for efficient regulation across the economy by collating the views of environmental health, human health and building regulators, as well as those from industry practitioners, scientists and the broader community.
By identifying current impediments, the project makes it easier for government, industry and users of recycled water to efficiently and safely pursue alternative water supply options. This will progress National Water Initiative (NWI) commitments to increase recycling and secure water supplies.
Project outcome - 2011
The Review of urban water quality regulation in Australia report was published in May 2011.
It sets out three reform options to ensure Australia's water sector maintains its strong record in delivering safe drinking water to our towns and cities.
The report finds that Australia's urban water sector is changing and must continue to do so to meet the supply challenges posed by climate variability and population growth.