Water resources are in the spotlight with the latest Productivity Commission Inquiry into the reform of Australia's water resources sector.
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The first national water reform inquiry was held in 2017 but further work remains, with governments needing to implement planning reforms and respond to population growth, climate change and changing community expectations around water.
The inquiry will look at whether governments have achieved the objectives and outcomes and reforms proposed under the National Water Initiative.
The Productivity Commission, among other things, will assess the extent to which current government responses are adequate, and will consider the interaction of water policy with agriculture and forestry, the policy ramifications of climate change on water resources and the provision of reliable water services to regional and rural communities.
An issues paper is available and outlines a range of issues on which the Commission is seeking feedback.
In terms of reliable water services to regional communities, the services refer to irrigated water for agriculture and domestic and stock use as well as basic water access for Australian households.
The paper says both types of service "support the economic development and well-being of people in regional communities and major cities", and any outcomes should "ensure that the entities delivering water services provide a reliable service [and] meet relevant standards and plan for the future".
Commentators are invited to examine the issues paper released this week and make a written submission or brief comment by August 21, 2020, with the final report due December 31, 2020.
