Terms of Reference
Chair
Mr Joe Ross, Fitzroy Crossing, Western Australia
Members
A high level, independent expert Taskforce.
Outcome sought
A better understanding of opportunities for new sustainable economic development in the north that are based on water resource availability, and the potential impact of such development on the underlying water balance and water quality, and on the natural environment, existing water users and the broader community.
For each of the key surface and groundwater systems and basins within the Timor Sea and Gulf of Carpentaria drainage divisions, and that part of the North East Coast drainage division north of Cairns, the Taskforce will:
- Identify, consistent with the provisions of the National Water Initiative, the sustainable capacity of the river systems and/or drainage basins to support increased consumptive water use;
- Identify, consistent with sustainable resource use principles and practices, economic development and diversification opportunities (including non-consumptive uses) which rely on access to locally or regionally significant water resources;
- Identify the potential impact of such development opportunities on the natural environment and other users and the broader community;
- Identify incentive, market, regulatory or planning instruments that could be used to facilitate, control or influence development, such that it proceeds in a manner consistent with the principles of the National Water Initiative; and
- Recommend governance arrangements for the effective management of surface and groundwater resources that cross jurisdictional boundaries.
Consultation
In developing its advice, the Taskforce will seek submissions from all interested groups. The Taskforce will also consult with each of the three northern jurisdictions.
Timeframe
The Taskforce will present its final report by December 2009. A mid-term report will be prepared by the end of December 2008.