Irrigators in the State’s west are being invited to participate in one of a series of online webinars to learn more about what they need to do to be compliant with new rules governing water use.

“We’re ramping up our education campaign and launching a series of online information sessions to help water-users understand their obligations and how to meet them, ask questions and chat directly with Department staff,” said Dan Connor who is the Director of Metering and Licensing with the NSW (Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW).

The first of the webinars was held on Wednesday, with the next opportunities on Wednesday, June 4, from 5.30-6.30pm, and Wednesday, June 18, from 9.30 to 10.30am

“NSW’s robust non-urban metering rules ensure water taken from our rivers and waterways is fairly measured and managed as we track towards 95 per cent of all licensed water take being metered by the end of 2026 – about a decade ahead of schedule,” Mr Connor said.

Recent reforms are designed to make the rules clearer and provide water-users with more flexible options and access to expert support, he said.

“We’re getting on with the job of implementing a faster, more efficient metering rollout which will deliver benefits for the entire state.

“But we want to make sure all water users understand their obligations and how to meet them,” he added.

To be compliant, water-users must know their obligations and take important actions.

“We know keeping up with the rules can be overwhelming, and some water-users might have specific questions related to their unique circumstances.

“I invite anyone who needs to become, or stay, compliant to join one of our upcoming information sessions, learn more about the requirements, understand the deadlines, ask questions and talk directly to our experts, who are here to support you,” Mr Connor said.

Metering requirements depend on a water-user’s volume of entitlement, and the size and number of their works, he added.

“We want to deliver an easier system to navigate, save costs for water users and prioritise high-volume users to make sure every drop counts and people are only taking what they’re entitled to,” Mr Connor explained.

“This work is part of our firm commitment to fair and sustainable water resource management, ensuring NSW is a leader in sustainable water use – now and in the future," he concluded.