The New South Wales Irrigators’ Council (NSWIC) has welcomed the state’s government’s metering review, which aims to resolve several long-standing issues in non-urban water metering compliance. While some concerns remain, the review introduces crucial changes that will benefit water users across the region.
Key Updates in the NSW Water Metering Review
The recently released Metering Review Recommendations Report introduces extended compliance deadlines and cost-reduction measures for small-scale and intermittent water users. This review is seen as a positive step forward for the irrigation community, especially those in coastal regions who have faced challenges with the previous metering regulations.
Compliance Extensions for Coastal Water Licence Holders
A major aspect of the report is the extension of compliance deadlines for coastal water licence holders. This move provides much-needed relief for farmers who have struggled with the complexities and costs of metering compliance.
- New deadline for compliance: Coastal water users with works nominated by 100ML or more in entitlements now have until 1 December 2026 to meet compliance requirements.
Cost-Reduction Solutions for Small Water Users
Small and intermittent water users have also seen positive developments in the report, with practical solutions introduced to lower the financial burden of compliance.
- Meters for smaller users: Water users with works nominated by total entitlements between 15ML and 100ML are now allowed to install pattern-approved meters without requiring DQP validation. Additionally, the use of LID/telemetry systems is now optional. Compliance has been extended until 1 December 2027, although mandatory recording and reporting of water use remains in place.
Exemptions for Small-Scale Water Users
For smaller water users with total entitlements of 15ML or less, the need to install water meters has been removed, although they are still required to record and report their water usage.
- No meter requirement: Water users with works nominated by 15ML or less no longer need to install meters, but must still maintain accurate records of water use.
Existing Regulations for Pumps and Bores Remain Unchanged
For those using pumps and bores below the size-based thresholds, the existing rules remain intact, requiring mandatory recording and reporting of water use.
NSWIC’s Continued Advocacy for Water Users
NSWIC remains committed to addressing the remaining concerns of water users, particularly around areas such as the attestation trial, a telemetry review, and ensuring the regulation changes extend to small water users in at-risk water sources. The Council plans to continue its collaboration with the government to resolve these issues.
NSWIC CEO’s Statement on the Metering Review
NSWIC CEO, Claire Miller, expressed satisfaction with the government’s responsiveness to the irrigation community’s concerns.
“This report marks a critical step in making water compliance quicker, easier, and more affordable, especially since NRAR and the department have acknowledged that many of the compliance barriers are beyond the control of water users,” Ms. Miller stated.
Future Changes to Water Metering Regulations
The updated regulations, expected to be amended by mid-2025, will bring several key changes that aim to balance the needs of water users and ensure sustainable water management practices across New South Wales.
Summary of Key Changes to the Metering Regulation:
- Coastal water users with works nominated by 100ML or more in entitlements have until 1 December 2026 to comply.
- Water users with works between 15ML and 100ML in total entitlements can install pattern-approved meters without DQP validation, with an extended deadline of 1 December 2027. However, recording and reporting water use remains mandatory.
- Water users with works nominated by 15ML or less no longer need to install meters, but recording and reporting of use is still mandatory.
- Rules for pumps and bores below size-based thresholds remain unchanged, with mandatory recording and reporting of water use.
Positive Impact on Coastal Farmers and Small Water Users
The extension of compliance deadlines and reduction of costs will have a significant impact on farmers in coastal areas, who have struggled with the financial and operational complexities of the previous regulations.
“These changes represent the government’s recognition of the lower risk posed by smaller water users, especially in coastal regions where water sources are less impacted by usage,” Ms. Miller said.
The Future of Water Management in New South Wales
While water users with entitlements under 100ML make up less than four percent of the total water consumption across the state, these regulatory changes offer relief to thousands of small farmers. However, some details will still need further clarification to ensure that the new regulations are implemented smoothly.
Collaboration for Sustainable Water Management
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with the government to create practical solutions that not only meet the needs of water users but also promote sustainable water management practices across New South Wales,” Ms. Miller concluded.