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.
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