WATERWORKS (MAKING OF RESTRICTIONS) AMENDMENT BILL

Second Reading

Adjourned debate on second reading.

(Continued from 14 November 2008. Page 1310.)

The Hon. I.K. HUNTER (19:50): The government will not be supporting this bill. The current drought has focused the community's attention like never before on the importance of efficient water use and the need to develop new sources of supply. However, this bill confuses water restrictions with water conservation. In accordance with the current Waterworks Act, restrictions are contingency measures. They are based on a technical assessment of water availability. Water restrictions are a contingency measure designed to deal with a potential shortfall in supply. As a result, water reductions need to be flexible and able to be imposed, amended or removed quickly. In contrast, water conservation measures are designed to provide the public with general guidance and encouragement in the sensible use of water resources. These measures are a long-term feature of life in this state.

It is absurd to suggest that SA Water's advice to the minister on these issues is somehow not in the best interests of this state. The Rann government accepts the advice of SA Water, but it also consults widely with stakeholders. The Minister for Water Security has already established an urban water drought reference group, with broad representation from groups with a vital interest in water restrictions and conservation. They include the Nursery and Garden Industry Association, the Australian Car Wash Association, the Australian Lawn Mowers Association, the Landscape Association, the Swimming Pool and Spa Association, the Turf Association, the Motor Trade Association, the Water Industry Alliance, the Local Government Association, the South Australian Council of Social Services and the Conservation Council. Another statutory committee, such as the stakeholders water advisory committee proposed by this bill, is unlikely to achieve a better result in the current drought in terms of water conservation. For these reasons the government will not be supporting the bill.

Debate adjourned on motion of Hon. C.V. Schaefer.