House of Assembly - Fifty-Fifth Parliament, First Session (55-1)
2023-08-29 Daily Xml

Contents

Hydrologist and Ecologist Appointments, Limestone Coast

In reply to Mr BASHAM (Finniss) (4 July 2023). (Estimates Committee B)

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): I have been advised:

The department for Environment and Water (the department) currently employs a hydrogeologist and a regional ecologist based in the Lower Limestone Coast. In addition, the Limestone Coast Landscape Board employs a wetland ecologist also based in the region.

The Department advertised for an additional hydrogeologist to work in the Limestone Coast region and was unable to fill the position. There is currently a shortage of groundwater professionals in Australia and recruitment in any location is proving challenging.

While efforts will continue, Adelaide-based specialist groundwater staff continue to work closely with regional staff and will be available as required to visit the region to provide advice and attend consultation events to support the Water Allocation Plan review.