Permanent water restriction measures for South Australia

19 Oct 2003

The South Australian Government will introduce permanent new water conservation measures for all water supplied by SA Water systems from next Sunday to coincide with the start of daylight saving, Administrative Services Minister, Jay Weatherill, and River Murray Minister, John Hill, announced today.

The Ministers chose the start of National Water Care Week to announce the new measures to replace Level 2 water restrictions which have been in place in South Australia since 1 July this year.

Mr Weatherill said the changes will be much simpler for people to follow and will further strengthen the State’s water conservation initiatives.

“The community response to Level 2 water restrictions introduced in July this year strongly supports the introduction of permanent water conservation measures," Mr Weatherill said.

“Market research conducted on behalf of SA Water shows that 95% of Adelaide residents support water conservation measures while around two thirds support reducing water consumption in their own homes."

“The aim of these measures is to change the way South Australians think about water regardless of the current conditions," Minister for the River Murray, John Hill, said.

“We shouldn’t need a drought and the mouth of the River Murray almost closing to tell us that water conservation is important and these new conservation measures will help to put an end to wasteful water practices.

The new water conservation measures will come into effect on 26 October 2003, replacing the current restrictions, except on the Eyre Peninsula where existing restrictions will continue to apply until notified otherwise.

A mail-out to all households, which will commence the following week, will fully explain the new water conservation measures and the penalties for non-compliance as well as helpful tips on wise water use.

“These are sensible, practical and responsible measures which ensure that different enterprises and industries are spared unnecessary commercial hardship," Mr Weatherill said.

“A permit system will ensure any special circumstances can be considered. Permits under the existing Level 2 restrictions will remain valid until 25 November 2003 while SA Water will contact all existing permit holders before then and automatically issue a new permit if required under the new conservation measures.

“While recent good rains have signalled the end of the drought, South Australians cannot afford to be complacent. We must learn sustainable use of our water to ensure the protection of this precious resources for future generations.

“Anyone in breach of these new measures will, in the first instance, be issued with a warning notice, reminding them of their responsibilities. If non-compliance continues a $315 expiation notice will be issued. Serious or continuing breaches could result in court action with fines of up to $5,000 for individuals and up to $10,000 for corporations.

For further information on the new water conservation measures please call the SA Water hotline on 1800 130 952 or visit the website on www.sawater.com.au.